Synthetic Drugs: Your Guide to These Constantly-Changing Substances

Understanding synthetic drugs and their effects is a vital step in navigating the complexities of recovery or supporting a loved one through their journey. These substances, known for their unpredictability and potentially severe impacts on health, pose significant challenges.

In this article, we offer you an extensive list of synthetic drugs, detailing their effects and the risks associated with their use. Our aim is to empower you with knowledge, equipping you to make informed decisions for a healthier future.

Overview of Synthetic Drugs

One of the key reasons people turn to synthetic drugs is their capacity to induce significant psychoactive effects. These substances, however, pose serious risks to users. Synthetic drugs can have serious, even fatal, health effects due to the unpredictability of their chemical makeup and potency.

Another concern with synthetic drugs is the absence of quality control in their manufacture and distribution. The substances are frequently blended with other unknown and potentially harmful chemicals, increasing the risks connected with their usage. Moreover, the packaging and marketing of synthetic drugs are often misleading, with labels falsely claiming that the products are safe or legal alternatives for illicit substances.

Synthetic drug use for recreational purposes has resulted in numerous emergency room visits and deaths globally. Recognizing the potential dangers of these substances, many governments have imposed greater restrictions on their manufacturing, sale, & distribution. However, the constant innovation of synthetic drug formulas and the rise of internet marketplaces pose ongoing challenges for law enforcement agencies.

List Of Synthetic Drugs

Following is a list of some commonly encountered synthetic drugs.

• Synthetic Cannabinoids (Spice, K2, Synthetic Marijuana)

• Synthetic Cathinones (Bath Salts)

• Synthetic Opioids (Fentanyl Analogues, U-47700)

• Synthetic Stimulants (Flakka, Alpha-PVP)

• Synthetic Hallucinogens (NBOMe series, 2C-E, 2C-B)

• Synthetic Depressants (Etizolam, Flubromazolam)

• Synthetic Dissociatives (Ketamine Analogues, PCP Analogues)

• Synthetic Psychedelics (25I-NBOMe, 1P-LSD)

• Synthetic Benzodiazepines (Clonazolam, Flualprazolam)

• Synthetic Nootropics (Modafinil, Phenylpiracetam)

Types Of Synthetic Drugs

Following are some examples of synthetic drugs.

Synthetic Cannabinoids

These substances, occasionally referred to as Spice or K2, are intended to replicate the effects of natural cannabis. However, their chemical composition might vary greatly, making their effects unpredictable and sometimes harmful.

Bath Salts

Synthetic cathinone, also known as "bath salts," are stimulants that have effects comparable to amphetamines or cocaine. They are usually sold as white crystalline powders with labels such as "plant food" or "cleaners."

Synthetic Opioids

Fentanyl and its equivalents are synthetic opioids many times more powerful than morphine. These medicines have a high overdose rate and are frequently illegally made and combined with other drugs.

Flakka

Flakka is a synthetic stimulant that can create hallucinations, delusions, and extreme agitation. It is also known as alpha-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (alpha-PVP). It rose to popularity because it is associated with weird and unpredictable user behavior.

NBOMe Series

This class of synthetic hallucinogens, which includes 25I-NBOMe, are potent substances with strong psychedelic effects. Because of their tremendous power, they are frequently offered as blotters or tabs and can pose significant user risks.

Synthetic Cathinones

Aside from "bath salts," other synthetic cathinones in use include methylone, MDPV (methylenedioxypyrovalerone), and ethylone. These compounds can have stimulant-like effects. They are occasionally advertised as legal substitutes for illegal drugs.

Synthetic Benzodiazepines

Synthetic benzodiazepines, such as Etizolam and Flualprazolam, are created to replicate the effects of prescription anxiety drugs such as Xanax or Valium. They can be purchased illegally and pose comparable sedative and addiction risks.

NPS (New Psychoactive Substances)

NPS is a broad group of synthetic drugs meant to mimic prohibited medications' effects. Synthetic cannabinoids, stimulants, hallucinogens, and opioids are some examples.

What Are Semi Synthetic Drugs?

Semi-synthetic drugs are substances derived from natural sources but modified chemically in a laboratory setting to enhance their properties or to produce a new compound. These drugs are a hybrid between natural and synthetic drugs. They usually involve altering specific chemical components found in natural substances.

Semi-synthetic opioids are a typical example of semi-synthetic drugs. Drugs, such as morphine or codeine, are produced from the opium poppy plant but undergo chemical alteration to create new compounds with different properties. For example, heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid generated from morphine by acetylation, producing a more robust and quickly-acting drug.

Semi-synthetic antibiotics are another example. These drugs are developed from natural antibiotics such as penicillin or cephalosporins. However, they are modified to improve their effectiveness or broaden their spectrum of activity. These alterations include adding or changing chemical groups to boost bacterial enzyme stability, potency, or resistance.

Semi-synthetic drugs can combine natural compounds' beneficial properties with their ability to change or increase certain characteristics through chemical manipulation. This improves therapeutic efficacy, potency, reduction of adverse effects, and stability.

Synthetic Drugs Vs. Natural Drugs

Synthetic and natural drugs are two types of substances that differ in origin, composition, and properties. Following are some key differences between synthetic and natural drugs.

Origins

Natural Drugs

• Natural drugs are obtained from natural plants, animals, or minerals.

• Plant-based natural drugs can be derived from herbs, roots, leaves, or flowers.

• Natural drugs obtained from animals can be derived from animal tissues or fluids.

• Mineral-based natural drugs may contain chemicals such as salts or metals.

Synthetic Drugs

• Synthetic drugs are completely manufactured in laboratories through chemical synthesis or modification.

• They are created by the use of certain chemical reactions and processes.

Composition

Natural Drugs

• Natural drugs contain active chemical components found in the parent material.

• These compounds often have complex structures and may contain several active ingredients.

Synthetic Drugs

• Synthetic drugs are created with a specific chemical structure in mind or to target specific biological pathways.

• They are often made up of pure, single compounds produced for particular purposes.

Standardization

Natural Drugs

• Natural drugs' chemical composition and effectiveness might vary depending on factors such as cultivation, harvesting, and processing methods.

• Climate, soil conditions, and genetic variables can all impact the concentration of active compounds in natural drugs.

Synthetic Drugs

• Synthetic drugs can be manufactured under controlled conditions, creating more consistent and standardized formulations.

• The manufacturing process for synthetic drugs offers more precision and quality control.

Regulation

Natural Drugs

• Natural drugs may be subject to regulations depending on the jurisdiction, particularly when derived from controlled plant species or used for medicinal purposes.

• Traditional medicine practices often rely on natural drugs with established cultural and historical use.

Synthetic Drugs

• Synthetic drugs face more stringent regulations due to concerns about their potential risks, abuse potential, and potential for illicit manufacturing.

• They often require approval from regulatory bodies before being available for medical use.

Side Effects

Natural Drugs

• Both natural and synthetic drugs can have side effects and risks associated with their use.

• Natural drugs may carry a lower risk of side effects since they have evolved alongside human biology and are often derived from plants with long histories of traditional use.

Synthetic Drugs

• Synthetic drugs may have a higher risk of side effects.

• It is majorly due to their specific chemical compositions or the presence of impurities.

Availability and Accessibility

Natural Drugs

• Natural drugs, such as herbal remedies, may be more readily available over-the-counter or through traditional medicine practices.

• They are often accessible to individuals seeking alternative or complementary treatment options.

Synthetic Drugs

• Pharmaceutical companies typically produce synthetic drugs and require a prescription or special authorization.

• They are subject to stricter regulations and distribution channels.

What Are The Dangers Of Synthetic Drugs?

The risks of synthetic drugs vary based on the chemical and its effects. Here are some of the most common risks associated with synthetic drugs.

Unknown Composition

• Because manufacturers change chemical structures to avoid regulations, synthetic drugs often have uncertain and ever-changing compositions.

• The unpredictability of the composition can result in unforeseen consequences and potential health hazards.

Increased Potency

• Synthetic drugs are intended to be potent, and they can be substantially stronger than their natural counterparts.

• The increased potency raises the risk of overdose and adverse reactions, particularly when users are unaware of the exact quantity or intensity of the material.

Physical Side Effects

• Physical side effects of synthetic drugs include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, seizures, difficulty breathing, and organ damage.

• Some synthetic drugs have been associated with serious health issues and even death.

Risks to Mental Health

• Extreme agitation, paranoia, anxiety, psychosis, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts are possible side effects of synthetic drugs.

• Prolonged or excessive use of synthetic drugs can result in long-term mental health problems.

Possibility of Addiction

• Many synthetic drugs, particularly stimulants & opioids, are highly addictive.

• They can produce extreme cravings, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms when they are stopped.

• The synthetic nature of these drugs can contribute to the severe and quick development of addiction.

Lack of Regulation

• Synthetic drugs often escape government oversight, making monitoring their safety and quality difficult.

• Toxic contaminants or impurities may be present in illegal manufacturing processes, posing health risks.

Long-Term Consequences

• The long-term consequences of many synthetic drugs have not been mostly understood due to their early introduction.

• Users may unknowingly expose themselves to health risks that are not entirely known or reported.

Legal Implications

• While synthetic drugs may be promoted as legal substitutes for prohibited substances, possession, sale, or distribution may still be illegal in many countries.

• Synthetic drug use might result in legal consequences and criminal charges.

Testing For Synthetic Drugs

Synthetic drug testing involves various procedures for detecting these compounds' presence in biological samples. Here are some common methods for identifying synthetic drugs:

Urine Testing

• Urine tests are frequently used to detect the presence of synthetic drugs.

• Specific classes of synthetic drugs, such as synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinone, can be detected through immunoassay tests.

Blood Testing

• Synthetic drugs and their byproducts can be detected in the bloodstream via blood testing.

• These tests are usually utilized to evaluate recent drug use, such as in cases of suspected impairment or acute intoxication.

• In general, blood testing has a narrower detection window than urine testing.

Saliva Testing

• Saliva testing can be used to identify recent synthetic drug use.

• They are non-invasive and can produce effects quickly.

• Saliva testing is often used in drug testing on roadsides or in the workplace.

Hair Testing

• Hair testing can provide a more comprehensive detection window for synthetic drugs because the drugs can be identified in hair for extended periods.

• However, it does not provide information on recent drug usage but rather a history of drug exposure.

• Hair testing is frequently utilized for retrospective analysis or when a longer detection time is desired.

Sweat Testing

• Sweat patches or screens can collect sweat samples from the skin and test for synthetic drug presence.

• This approach is less frequent but can be utilized when continuous drug monitoring is essential.

Conclusion: Moving Forward with Knowledge

As you conclude this exploration of synthetic drugs and their effects, remember that you are not alone in this journey. At The Forge Recovery Center, we are here to provide the support and guidance you need to recover. Armed with this knowledge, you can better understand the challenges you or your loved family member might face.

If you need help or have questions about treatment options, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can work towards a healthier, drug-free future.

Written by

Brian Moore

Content Writer

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

September 19, 2024