Quaaludes
Quaaludes is the brand name for the generic drug Methaqualone. It is a synthetic central nervous system depressant that mimics the effects of Barbiturates. The drug works by increasing the GABA receptors which are neurotransmitters that block impulses between nerve cells in the brain. Quaaludes was originally synthetized to be a safer alternative to the severe drawbacks of barbiturates which is derived from barbituric acid and has the potential for abuse, dependence and dangerous interactions with other drugs. Once in use however, Quaaludes soon began to display the same propensity to cause addiction as barbiturates.
History of Quaaludes
The first synthesization of Quaaludes (Methaqualone) occurred in India during the 1950s as a treatment for malaria. It was introduced into the United States medical community in the 1960s. It was also manufactured as a tablet under the name Quaalude by Rorer and Lemmons, a pharmaceutical firm. The tablets were stamped with the number 714 which later became a popular street name for the drug. It was also produced under the trade names Sopor and Parest in the United States. In 1972, this drug became the 6th bestselling drug in the country. During this time the drug also became popular for recreational use. Once the drug’s potential for addiction became apparent, it was taken off the market and later placed on the Drug Enforcement Administration’s list of illegal substances under a Schedule II category and was available only as a prescription drug.
Current Drug Classification
Quaalude is currently a Schedule I controlled substance on the DEA drug list. This classification makes the manufacture, possession, distribution and use of Quaaludes (Methaqualone) by anyone in the United States illegal and therefore subject to punishment under federal law.
Use and Abuse
Quaaludes is most commonly used for its relaxation and euphoric properties. These are said to enhance sexual activity because it lowers inhibitions and heighten sensitivity. Thanks to these highly desirable attributes, Quaaludes became a heavily abused drug globally. Although illegal, manufacture of Quaaludes still occurs under clandestine conditions for recreational use.
This drug is tasteless, odorless and produced as tablets and capsules. Quaaludes are typically crushed and combined with other drugs such as marijuana and smoked. It is also liquefied and injected. On the street, the drug may be referred to by names such as Ludes, Lemmons, Quacks, 714s, Soapers, Super Soapers, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Use of Quaaludes may cause drowsiness, slowed heart rate, depressed respiration, and increased sexual arousal as well as numbness of the fingers and toes. Withdrawal symptoms can also occur when those in addiction to Quaaludes try to stop using the drug. These withdrawal symptoms may manifest as anxiety, muscle spasms, loss of appetite, irritability, feeling weak; seizures, hyperthermia, hallucinations, blisters, nausea and vomiting.
Signs of Quaaludes Abuse
Individuals abusing this drug may display the following signs or symptoms of abuse:
- Excessive sweating
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Memory loss
- Irregular heartbeat
- Motor dysfunction
Overdosing on Quaaludes can result in convulsions, delirium, respiratory depression, heart attack and coma. Feelings of severe intoxication that result in slurred speech, nausea, vomiting and loss of motor skills can occur on doses of 2000 mg of Quaalude or less. The risks increase if the drug is used in combination with benzodiazepines, barbiturates and alcohol. Contact your doctor immediately if any of these symptoms occur after using Quaaludes. These are indications that a drug overdose may have occurred that could be fatal if not treated in a timely manner.
Treatment for Quaaludes Addiction
Quaaludes addiction treatment will typically begin with a gradual detoxification procedure. Because of the unpredictable nature of withdrawal symptoms from synthetic drugs such as Quaaludes, medical oversight is important to minimize the health risks that may be presented during the withdrawal process. At our drug rehab treatment centers our board certified doctors and nurses provide around the clock monitoring of patients to alleviate the discomfort and address any medical emergencies that may arise. Due to the nature of Quaaludes addiction, it may be necessary to administer medications that will help the elimination process to occur safely and with as little psychological or physical destabilization of the patient as possible.
Once the detoxification process is completed, patients who have been diagnosed with dual diagnosis conditions will undergo simultaneous rehabilitation treatment. All patients with or without comorbid conditions are carefully evaluated before a tailored rehabilitation treatment program is designed for them. Treatment program are comprehensive and integrates holistic, conventional and current innovative evidence-based protocols as well as relapse prevention education and training to facilitate full recovery and long term sobriety.
If you or a loved one is suffering from Quaaludes addiction call our Drug Rehab Treatment Centers today at 877-855-3470. Our call center representatives are available 24/7 to help you to find your way into a recovery program that is right for you.