Sunday, July 31, 2005

If there is a will there is a way

Everyday household products or customary over the counter drugs, are being used as ways of getting high and can be lethal.

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant. Found in over the counter tablets and capsules. It is used to treat congestion associated with allergies, hay fever, sinus irritation, and the common cold. Pseudo-ephedrine is used as a key ingredient needed for the production of the illicit drug methamphetamine, also known as Crystal meth.

The abuse of inhalants is widespread across the United States; however, it may be underreported because law enforcement officials and healthcare providers are often unfamiliar with the signs of inhalant abuse. Abusers, primarily adolescents, inhale chemical vapors from a variety of substances, many of which are common household products. These young people abuse inhalants in order to obtain a euphoric effect and are often unaware of the potential risks, which include brain damage and death. Some adults also abuse inhalants, particularly nitrites. Adult abusers often inhale substances in order to enhance their sexual experiences. Inhalants are the fourth most abused substances in the United States among eighth, tenth, and twelfth graders; alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana are the top three.

Non-prescription medications containing various forms of DXM found in various over the counter cold medications, (includes medicines used for cough, cold and flu) acts as a disassociative. This means that it disassociates your mind from your body, and the rest of your physical setting.

Nutmeg can cause a trip that lasts anywhere from 20 hours to almost 2 days.

There have been many affirmations from those that have overdosed (lucky enough to have lived) that say their lives are ruined forever. Any one of these products can cause death if misused. I cannot personally corroborate the truths to any of the above information, and do not personally know anyone who has participated in this type of activity. This is information that I read on the internet and have seen in previously reported news specials. I do not condone the misuse of any of these products. I am simply pointing out, that according to what I have read or seen on the news, these “household items” are dangerous or even lethal if used improperly. I am shocked that people will go to these lengths to get high. I guess just like anything, if there is a will there is a way. In my opinion, it is just not worth the risk. Since the increase of consumers buying the decongestant Pseudoephedrine for the use in making Crystal meth, the pharmacies are now putting all of those medications behind the counter and making people sign for them. I guess you can say they are not "over the counter" any longer. Does that mean they will be putting all of the cough syrups, cleaning solutions, paint and SPICES behind the counter now? Nutmeg? How do people ever figure this out? I just can’t picture the first person saying, “Hey, lets eat a bunch of this spice so maybe we can trip”!