The Dangers of the Krokodil Drug Trend

In recent years, krokodil has become an increasingly popular drug among those looking for an inexpensive high. But it has also earned a fearsome reputation as "the drug that eats junkies" due to its flesh-rotting side effects. So why are people still using it?

In this blog post, we will discuss krokodil drug abuse and the signs of krokodil addiction so you can be aware of the dangers associated with this substance. We’ll also provide information on how to get help for krokodil users who may need assistance getting clean and sober.

What Is Krokodil?

Also known as "Russian magic" or "poor man's heroin," krokodil is a homemade opioid made from codeine mixed with other substances such as paint thinner, iodine, gasoline, or hydrochloric acid. It’s a dangerous and highly addictive substance that can devastate the body. The name krokodil comes from the Russian word for crocodile due to the scaly, greenish-gray patches of skin that can appear after using this drug.

Although it is internationally banned and classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, krokodil is still used illegally. It is prevalent in Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe. It’s much cheaper than heroin, which is why it has become so popular among drug users in those regions. Unfortunately, krokodil is becoming increasingly accessible in other parts of the world as well, including the US.

Krokodil in the News

In recent years, krokodil has been making headlines for its growing popularity among opioid users. For those struggling with opioid addiction, krokodil seems attractive due to its relatively low cost compared to other recreational drugs. But this is a dangerous gamble, as krokodil has also become well-known for its highly addictive nature and devastating side effects.

In one incident, a krokodil user in Russia died after injecting krokodil into his arm, which caused a fatal infection of the bone marrow. In another case, a study reports a female krokodil user developed extensive skin ulcers after a single use of the harmful narcotic.

Though it’s been years since krokodil first came to light, the media continues to report on these incidents, highlighting their shocking and dramatic nature.

Krokodil Drug Abuse

Krokodil is most commonly injected into the veins, which allows it to enter the bloodstream quickly and cause a rapid high. Unfortunately, krokodil is so caustic that it can eat away the skin and tissue, leading to severe infections and abscesses. It also has an extremely short half-life, meaning that users must take krokodil multiple times per day to maintain a high from the drug.

Krokodil is highly addictive, and users often become dependent on it very quickly. This dependency can lead to compulsive krokodil consumption even when faced with the serious health problems that result from use.

Dangers and Side Effects of Krokodil Drug Use

Krokodil is an extremely hazardous drug with serious symptoms. The side effects of krokodil range from mild to severe, but its danger cannot be understated. Potential effects include:

• skin rashes
• infections
• abscesses
• gangrene and rotting flesh
• sepsis
• organ failure
• brain damage
• coma

Long-term krokodil abuse can also lead to extreme physical deformities due to the chemicals in krokodil damaging tissue and corroding bone. In many cases, using krokodil can even be fatal, making it notorious as one of the most dangerous recreational substances currently in use.

Signs of Krokodil Drug Addiction

Krokodil is a highly addictive substance, and users may become dependent after just a few doses. Signs of krokodil addiction include:

• intense or uncontrollable cravings for krokodil
• inability to stop using krokodil despite harmful consequences to their health, career, and social life
• withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, muscle pain, anxiety, and depression when krokodil is not used
• a spike in tolerance that requires more and more krokodil to achieve the desired effects
• neglecting personal responsibilities and relationships due to excessive krokodil use

How to Get Help for Krokodil Users

If you know someone addicted to krokodil, they must get help as soon as possible. Krokodil addiction can have serious and long-term health consequences if left untreated.

For krokodil users needing help, the best option is to seek professional assistance from a qualified mental health provider or drug rehab facility specializing in krokodil addiction. The treatment plan will likely involve a combination of therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications such as buprenorphine or naltrexone for detoxification and cravings reduction.

Krokodil is one of the most dangerous drugs on the market and continues to harm individuals worldwide. However, with the right treatment and support, krokodil users can recover from their addiction and reclaim their lives.

Resources for Krokodil Drug Rehab and Treatment

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Find treatment options near you, substance abuse facts and statistics, and further information on krokodil drug use. Includes a free, confidential 24/7 helpline, available at 1-800-662-4357.
• American Addiction Centers: Provides a national rehab directory, including both in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation centers.
• DrugRehab.com: Offers information and guidance for those struggling with substance abuse, including tools for addiction and treatment options.

Identify Drug Use with Countrywide Testing

Countrywide Testing has the answers you need when you need expert advice about medications, supplements, or recreational drugs. And if you think someone you know may be abusing dangerous illegal substances like krokodil, we also offer discreet, at-home drug testing kits that will help you get confirmation and help them on the road to recovery.

Countrywide offers an array of drug testing products for workplace testing, healthcare emergencies, law enforcement purposes, and individuals trying to stay clean after rehab.

Our test kits are convenient, affordable, and ship to you quickly. Plus, our lab is accredited by SAMHSA, so you can rest assured your test results are handled in accordance with the highest industry standards.

Want more information on how Countrywide can support drug safety and rehabilitation? Just contact our team today.