Club drugs
It is clear from the recent amount of press concerning the recreational drug trade that the “stuff” is “out there” and freely available if you speak to the right people. It is certainly no surprise to someone like myself who has spent many a Saturday night on duty in the emergency room, that these drugs have been around for a long time, and while there is money to be made from it, and the demand is there, they will be around for many years to come. There is nothing so difficult as to break the news, to a mother, father, friend or wife that their son, daughter, partner or friend “did not respond to emergency treatment in the E.R. I am very sorry Mr., Mrs, Steve, Sue, Wayan or Dewi…”.well you know the rest. That being said, we can’t turn our back on the situation and pretend that it’s not there, because it is. Nightclubs, dance parties, raves and other events are the field for “club drugs” - a range of substances used to try to increase enjoyment. Let’s take a look at what these drugs are, what they do and the dangers.
Amphetamines. Amphetamines are a group of related drugs that include: Speed (amphetamine, dexamphetamine) Meth , sabu sabu, (methamphetamine, methylamphe-tamine) Ice (crystalline methamphetamine hydrochloride, purified methylamphetamine). Amphetamines are sold in different forms, including powder, liquid, capsules, tablets and paste.
Ecstasy. Ecstasy (MDMA) is an amphetamine-type substance classed as an hallucinogenic amphetamine, which means it combines the effects of hallucinogens such as LSD and the stimulant effects of speed.
LSD. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is a hallucinogen, also known as a “psychedelic drug”, or “acid”. In its pure state, LSD is a white, odorless powder, but usually comes in the form of a liquid, tablet, capsule or square of gelatin or blotting paper.
Ketamine. Ketamine, also known as “Special K”, is a powerful anesthetic used in surgery. It is a disassociative drug, which means that when used the mind seems to “leave” the body. Ketamine comes as a liquid (for injecting), pill, powder and a formulation for smoking.
GHB. HB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) is also known as “fantasy”, “grievous bodily harm (GBH)” and “liquid ecstasy”. It comes as a colorless, odorless liquid or as a crystal powder.
Alcohol. Many people do not think about alcohol in the same way as they would other club drugs, but statistics show that alcohol is the most popular recreational drug used in Australia. It is also the most common drug used to assist sexual assault (drink spiking).
What are the risks?
All drugs have the potential to cause harm, ranging from immediate physical harm to confusion, psychosis, dependence and, in extreme cases, death. The risks of harm are increased when greater amounts of drugs are taken, or when drugs are mixed, especially with alcohol. Mixing drugs influences the effects, and increases the chances of problems occurring.
What are the effects?
It is important to remember that the effects of any drug, including club drugs, vary from person to person. A number of factors can have an influence on how the person is affected, including age and physical characteristics (such as weight and general health), type and quantity of the substance used. In addition, the effects of some drugs, such as LSD, are particularly unpredictable.
Short-term effects
Some of the short-term effects of club drugs such as ecstasy include feelings of wellbeing and euphoria, confidence, lack of inhibition, alertness, increased closeness with others and sexual arousal. Unpleasant and/or risky short-term effects include nausea, vomiting, sweating, jaw clenching, teeth grinding, anxiety, loss of appetite, hallucinations, confusion, seizure, coma and, in extreme cases, death.
Long-term effects
Many of the popular club drugs, such as GHB and ice, are relatively new on the market, and little is known about their long-term effects. Damage to brain cells by neurotoxins means that long-term effects of using ecstasy, speed and cocaine might include depression, changes to mood, memory, aggression, appetite, sexual function and sleep patterns. Long-term use of drugs such as cocaine and ice can lead to adverse physical effects like heart attacks, stroke, respiratory failure, high blood pressure and increase in heart rate.
Don’t take the risk
The best way to avoid problems with drugs is not to use them. However, if people do choose to use them, it is important that they do so in the safest way possible. Discourage those around you from mixing drugs. Taking more than one substance can increase the dangers. Learn about the substances that are available, their risks and side effects. Learn what to do if you should find someone who is suffering from drug related problems (overdose, dehydration, psychosis etc). Perhaps you could take a first aid course specifically designed for night club related emergencies.
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Kim Patra is a qualified Registered Nurse and Midwife that has been living and working in Bali for almost twenty years. She now runs her own private practice and medical referral service from her Kuta office. Kim is happy to discuss any health concerns with you and she may be contacted via e-mail at info@chcbali.com”.
