About Club Drugs

They are almost always associated with a decadent, party lifestyle, whether taken at night clubs or at private raves - hence the name "club drugs." Used often to turn introverted, unsure people into less inhibited creatures, these stimulants are designed to enhance an already raucous atmosphere and encourage participants to become more daring and free. Unfortunately, people who become addicted to club drugs may find they are not always so, that they become dependent on the fleeting high. Or worse, they succumb to illness or even death.

Alcohol falls into a category of drugs known as sedative hypnotics. Other well known drugs in this class include tranquilizers like Librium, Valium and Xanax.

Stimulants are known to be used commonly at night clubs and raves in order to keep the body's level energy high for dancing and socializing into the late hours. It is not unusual to find people using energy drinks and powdered stimulants, but when the body becomes used to such products it may seek something stronger to keep the momentum going. Some people may consider club drugs for that wanted boost. Some of the more common club drugs used include:

Methylenedioxymethamphetamine - Also known as MDMA or by its street name, the apropos Ecstasy. When taken, this drug causes the secretion of mass amounts of serotonin and dopamine into the brain, which heightens feelings of empathy, euphoria, and energy. When combined with alcohol, or when taken without hydrating the body, ecstasy can prove to be very dangerous.

Teaching the line, "Just Say No" is simply not enough. It neglects the underlying pressures that teens face every day. Its simplistic message tends to turn teens off, or become a source of humor for them. Rather than just telling them not to use drugs, teach them about the harmful effects and about the consequences (physical, mental, and emotional) they can expect.

Gamma hydroxy butyrate - Also known as GHB or Liquid Ecstasy, though it is not the same drug as MDMA. This club drug is a clear liquid that, when taken, can decease a person's inhibitions and heighten sexual prowess. As such, GHB is known to have been used as a "date rape" drug, slipped into a person's drink to render that person more willing. Unfortunately, Liquid Ecstasy may also prove damaging or deadly, as it can also halt the gag reflex and cause a person to lose muscle control.

Although the nonmedical use of Oxycontin was rare in 2000, the NHSDA data show evidence of an emerging problem. The estimated number of lifetime nonmedical Oxycontin users increased from 221,000 in 1999 to 399,000 in 2000.

Club drugs especially can prove hazardous when the body is not well hydrated and rested. While it is assumed these drugs are used only when socializing at clubs, they still have the same addictive properties of other drugs, and can cause a person to become addicted. With the added stimulation of night club music and sounds, and the addition of alcohol, the potential for harm can be multiplied. If you enjoy going out at night and are in need of that added boost to keep you on the dance floor, be warned of what harm club drugs can do.

Medicines can be used to help treat drug abuse and dependence. Some medicines reduce withdrawal symptoms during detoxification. Other medicines help you remain sober during lifelong recovery.

Stephanie Loebs is the executive director of Williamsburg Place, a top drug rehab clinic in the United States. Williamsburg Place aids those who suffer from drug and/or alcohol addiction, and specializes in caring for health care professionals. For over twenty years Williamsburg Place and its joint rehabilitation center, the William J. Farley Center, have helped thousands of people from all walks of life take back their lives and overcome substance abuse.

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Parents often assume that teens try alcohol and drugs to rebel or to "fit in" with their peer group. However, teens with undiagnosed emotional or behavioral problems often use drugs and alcohol as a way to relieve their frustrations.

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Adolescents are particularly at risk of adverse reactions from hallucinogen use as they enter puberty, a time of rapid physical and emotional changes. Hallucinogens are especially dangerous because their effects are so unpredictable. They can cause suicidal tendencies in some people and violent behavior in others. As judgment, memory, and perception are clouded under the influence, users are at risk of overdose, severe injuries, and death from vehicle accidents, falls, drowning, and burns. Sometimes, hallucinogen use can uncover severe mental disorders, such as severe depression or schizophrenia.

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Drug Addiction Facts

About Club Drugs

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