What is flakka? Also known as gravel, it is a powerful synthetic stimulant that has become increasingly popular in Florida. Like other party drugs such as 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy) and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD or acid), flakka can cause individuals to experience hallucinations, paranoia, and agitation. But what sets flakka apart from other drugs? What are the dangers associated with its use? Call 866.693.3871 to speak with someone from our caring and compassionate staff about synthetic stimulants like flakka and our residential treatment programs that help our patients overcome stimulant abuse and addiction.
What Are Party Drugs?
Party drugs are used recreationally by people looking for a fast-acting high. These substances are usually synthetic or semi-synthetic substances designed to mimic the effects of traditional drugs like marijuana or cocaine. They can range from mild stimulants like bath salts to more potent hallucinogens like acid or ecstasy. The most commonly abused party drugs include:
- MDMA
- Methamphetamines
- Ketamine
- Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
- Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol)
- LSD
In recent years, however, flakka has become increasingly popular in Florida. While flakka is not as common as other party drugs like MDMA or LSD, its use has resulted in severe consequences, including death. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with flakka abuse and seek help if needed.
What Is Flakka?
Flakka is a powerful synthetic stimulant chemically similar to amphetamines like ecstasy and methamphetamine. It is often sold as tiny crystals or powder that can be smoked, injected, snorted, or ingested orally. When taken in large doses, it can cause intense hallucinations and agitation. It can even lead to violent outbursts and erratic behavior in some individuals.
Flakka is highly addictive due to its rapid onset of action and intense euphoric effects. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reports an addiction rate of 70%, making it one of the most addictive street drugs available today. The common signs of flakka abuse include:
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Delusions
- Anxiety attacks
- Aggression or extreme irritability
- Impaired motor skills
- Coordination problems
- Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
If you notice any of these signs in someone you know who uses flakka regularly, you should immediately contact a substance abuse specialist for help. Several treatment options are available to flakka abusers, including inpatient and outpatient programs that focus on helping individuals achieve long-term sobriety. By speaking with someone from our caring and compassionate staff at Evoke Coconut Creek, you can get the help needed to overcome flakka abuse and addiction.
What to Expect from Stimulant Addiction Treatment
Stimulant addiction treatment typically involves:
- Detox – Clearing flakka out of the body in a safe and supervised setting.
- Behavioral therapy – Counseling sessions that help patients identify triggers, manage cravings, and develop better coping skills. Approaches common in addiction treatment include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT).
- Support group participation – Joining a flakka support group to discuss challenges and strategies for staying sober and share experiences with other flakka users.
- Medication-assisted treatment – Medications such as buprenorphine can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Relapse Prevention – Learning techniques to stay on track with recovery goals.
At Evoke Coconut Creek, our residential treatment programs provide comprehensive flakka addiction treatment. We can help you or your loved one start the path to recovery.
Find Stimulant Addiction Treatment in Florida at Evoke Coconut Creek
Flakka is a dangerous synthetic stimulant that has become increasingly popular among recreational drug users looking for an intense high quickly but with potentially fatal consequences if abused too often or frequently. Individuals abusing this drug should seek professional help immediately because its highly addictive properties make quitting difficult without assistance from trained professionals who understand how best to treat this type of problem. Contact Evoke Coconut Creek today at 866.693.3871 to learn more.
