Controlled drugs

Magic Mushrooms

These are mushrooms which contain hallucinogenic chemicals. They are also referred to as shrooms and caps. When eaten they produce a feeling of intoxication which can be accompanied by hallucinations. They can also cause nausea. People who have eaten magic mushrooms may experience distorted perceptions of sight, sound, touch and taste. The effects usually come quickly and go within 2 hours. Other physical effects can include sweating, nervousness and paranoia.

MDMA or Ecstasy

Also known as E, XTC, X and Adam. It comes in a tablet form and this is often branded. It is a synthetic drug which induces hallucinations and other effects of amphetamine use. This is a general sense of feeling good, of having more energy, being over talkative. They are considered to be a dance or rave drug. External physical symptoms include muscle tension, involuntary teeth clenching, nausea, blurred vision, rapid eye movement, faintness, and chills or sweating.

Methadone – controlled drugs

Usually used by those who are opiate dependent, it can be fatal if used by those who are not. It is often prescribed to people who take opiates in order to reduce their use of illegal opiates, most commonly heroin. However, its use is controversial as many methadone users will also take heroin on top of their methadone. Many users become addicted to the methadone itself. It usually comes in the form of a green liquid but can also come in injectable or tablet form. It creates a sense of well-being and absence of stress which is less intense than that produced by heroin. Hence the need to take heroin on top of the prescribed dose. But, it lasts longer. It can cause constipation, small pupils, sweating and itchy skin.

PCP or angel dust

The technical term for this is Phencyclidine. It is a white crystalline powder with a distinctive bitter taste. It is more common in the United States of America than in the United Kingdom. Its other names are ozone, wack, peace pill, dust, rocket fuel and elephant tranquilliser. However, It can cause a drop in blood pressure and pulse rate, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, drooling, loss of balance and dizziness. If taken in very high doses it can cause illusions, hallucinations and inability to feel physical pain.

Controlled Drugs

Different drugs stay in the body for different lengths of time. Retention in the body is also affected by the person’s age, height, sex, weight, dosage and frequency of use. Opiates and cocaine can be detectable in urine for 2 – 5 days. Amphetamines and methamphetamines detectable for 2 – 6 days, barbiturates for 3 – 8 days. Methadone can be detectable for 2 – 7 days and benzodiazepines for 2 – 14 days. However, Cannabis stays within the body for longest, typically for 14 – 28 days, because it becomes trapped in the body’s fat reserves. If only used once it will leave the body within 5 days.

None of the above controlled drugs are beneficial to health and prolonged use can cause drug addiction leading to serious mental and physical issues. Drug rehab may be required if you or a loved one are dependent on drugs. The Haynes Clinic is an alcohol, drug and gambling rehab clinic which offers detox and counselling for people with addictions.

Call 01462 851 414 for free and confidential advice.