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As the UK
Government moves to control drugs known as ‘legal highs’ such as
‘Spice’ and ‘BZP,’ the latest cause for concern is Mephedrone also
known as ‘Plant Food’ or ‘Meph’. (Its pronunciation should not be
confused with Methadone which is an opioid used by those coming off
Heroin and has the opposite effect of
Mephedrone). A derivative of Cathinone (a stimulant drug which
increases the heart rate), it is not currently controlled under UK
legislation although it is under review.
What is it?
Mephedrone and its similar drug Methylone is a
powder or tablet which can be snorted or swallowed and is said to have
similar effects to MDMA (Ecstasy)
and Cocaine
or
Methamphetamine. The clue is in the
name 'Plant Food' and is clearly packaged with the warning
Unfortunately,
as with many ‘legal drugs’ the marketing of such substances is clearly
aimed at those who already or wish to, consume drugs.
The danger here is the perception that legal
means safe – which is not the case, some legal drugs are as - if not
more dangerous - than illegal ones and also have the potential for
psychological addiction.
Each drug effect will always
depend on the individual such as their physical and mental health,
their body size, and the environment the drug is taken in and the
chemical interactions within the body. Add in other drugs including
alcohol and outcomes become even more unpredictable, and sadly for
some, permanent in terms of mental health problems or fatalities. Just
because it is available online or in a shop does not remove its
potential to cause harm.
The Law
Currently legal in the UK - HOWEVER:
Following deaths last year from
Mephedrone, and a further 2 reported in Sweden this year (2009) the drug has now been outlawed in Sweden. The USA, Israel,
Finland, Australia and New Zealand have already banned sale and
possession under their existing laws. With local and UK reports of
unpleasant effects such as hallucinations, psychotic behaviour and
dependence moves are underway to classify Mephedrone, Methylone and
Spice under the misuse of drugs act. Jersey & Guernsey have also acted
to control the import of so-called 'Legal Highs'.
The Isle of Man Health Minister
has agreed to look at controlling this substance in the Island - see
link to story below.
IOM NEWS LINKS
'Health Minister to Outlaw Legal High'
'Legal Highs Wrecked My Life'
What's
the Risk?
There is no research into the
toxicity or long term health effects of Mephedrone or Methylone - it
wasn’t made for human consumption so a lot of what is known relies on
reports from those who use it (and the consequences) and those
presenting at drug services or A&E.
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