Mephedrone - Some Basic Information

Mephedrone is a synthetic stimulant that is closely related to amphetamines. Mephedrone belongs to a group of drugs derived from cathinone. The cathinone is a stimulant that is naturally occurring and present in the khat plant. The effects when mephedrone is ingested are similar to those of ecstasy or cocaine. Mephedrone is sold as an off-white yellowish powder and is also available in the pill and capsule forms. It is classified as a Class B drug and it is illegal to be in possession of the drug or sell it.

Mephedrone is a relatively new recreational drug that does not have significant clinical literature backing up its properties. A recreational drug is one that individuals use occasionally for the purpose of enjoyment, choosing not to believe that it is habit-forming. Mephedrone is, however, popular among club goers and there are anecdotal experiences from users that are available. Mephedrone is ingested by swallowing, snorting or through injections. Mephedrone is also known by other names such as meph, meow-meow, bubbles, drone, etc.

Physical and Psychological Effects of Using Mephedrone

The users of Mephedrone report feeling a sense of euphoria and wellbeing on taking the drug. The feeling of alertness is increased and the user feels more confident and talkative when under the influence of the drug. There are reports of users experiencing increased sexual desire and showing feelings of affection to the people present around them. The user experiences feelings of anxiety and paranoia and increased heart rate when using mephedrone.

The user can experience vomiting and have headaches. The drug is also reported to overstimulate the nervous system with the risk of inducing fits in the user. It also causes hallucinations and feelings of agitation. The drug also reduces the user's appetite.

Other effects reported include grinding of teeth, insomnia, palpitations, loss of short-term memory, vertigo, sweating, and changes in body temperatures among others.

The effects of mephedrone presumably last for a hour or two. The drug effects depend on the size, weight and health of the user and vary according to the amount of drug that is ingested.

Long-term Effects and Risks of Taking Mephedrone

Some users have reported cold or blue fingers because of the fact that mephedrone affects the heart and the circulation. Nosebleeds have been known to occur in those users who snort mephedrone regularly. Polydrug combinations of mephedrone with alcohol and other drugs are known to be potentially dangerous and increase the risk of death. Insomnia, hallucinations and involuntary clenching of muscles have also been reported.

Driving a vehicle is illegal when experiencing a mephedrone 'high'. In fact, you can still be unfit to drive the day after you take mephedrone.

Is Mephedrone Addictive

Mephedrone users have reported many continuous sessions with mephedrone largely because it is cheap and it is easy to snort the drug. Some users have reported development of tolerance for the drug with long-term consistent use. A single oral dose of mephedrone can be anything between 150 to 300 mg. Several users have reported to have taken 20g over a month. A large number of users have claimed that the drug can be addictive. Some studies have indicated the presence of strong cravings and the desire to re-dose among users of the drug.

There is limited research and evidence available on the dependence and overdose of mephedrone.