Krokodil or desomorphine is a highly addictive semisynthetic opioid with powerful and fast-acting effects like analgesia and sedation. Similar to heroin, it is 10 to 15 times more potent than morphine, takes effect within 2 to 3 minutes, and is 3 times as toxic. In addition, Krokodil produces a euphoria that usually lasts less than 2 hours. Because the drug has such a short duration, users will continuously use the drug to prevent any withdrawal symptoms similar to heroin.
Harmful Chemistry Behind Krokodil
According to the National Library of Medicine:
The harmful chemistry behind krokodil (desomorphine) synthesis and mechanisms of toxicity”, “Krokodil” is the street name for the homemade injectable mixture that has been used as a cheap substitute for heroin. Its use began in Russia and Ukraine and nowadays is being spread over several other countries. Desomorphine is the semi-synthetic opioid claimed to be the main component of krokodil and is considered to be responsible for its psychoactive characteristics. The starting materials for desomorphine synthesis are codeine tablets, alkali solutions, organic solvent, acidified water, iodine, and red phosphorus, which are easily available in retail outlets, such as supermarkets, drugstores, etc. The resulting product is a light brown liquid that is called krokodil. People who inject krokodil present many serious signs and symptoms, including thrombophlebitis, ulcerations, gangrene, and necrosis, quickly evolving to limb amputation and death. These effects are thought to result from the toxic components produced as byproducts during the homemade drug synthesis. (NLM)
What is Krokodil?
Krokodil is a very caustic substance. It often contains gasoline, paint thinner, lighter fluid, hydrochloric acid, iodine, and red phosphorus from matches. When individuals inject it into the vein, they can develop infections, extreme skin ulcerations, and gangrene.
More About What is Krokodil
Russian for “crocodile”, krokodil was originally created as a synthetic opioid to help manage pain. It is illegal in the United States and has been since the 1930s. Commonly injected, krokodil gets its name from one of the serious side effects it causes on the skin. Just like the name, it can cause your skin to have a crocodile-like look to it. This is not something you want to have, it also comes with many other adverse side effects that can affect you both mentally and physically. If you or someone is addicted to krokodil, it is time to seek help before it is too late. We offer both medical detox and addiction treatment for people suffering from all types of drug addiction, everything we offer is backed by evidence-based and solution-focused treatments. We have a plan that will work for anyone who is suffering from drug addiction.
Terrible Side-Effects of Krokodil
Krokodil has been very popular in Russia for the last several years. Statistics show that nearly one million people in the country use the drug. There has been a lot of the drug seized, and it has been reported in other countries such as Ukraine, Germany, Norway, Kazakhstan, and Georgia. Krokodil is a very dangerous drug and has terrible side effects when it is taken. Some of the side-effects of the drug can include:
- Skin ulcers and gangrene
- Skin and soft tissue infection
- Damage to blood vessels
- Amputations of limbs
- Pneumonia
- Meningitis
- Blood poisoning
- Tooth loss and rotting gums
- Bone infections like osteomyelitis and osteonecrosis
- Memory loss, impaired concentration, speech, and motor skill impairment
- Liver and kidney damage
- Slowed breathing
- Overdose
- Death
Get Help Now For Krokodil Abuse at Evoke Wellness at Miramar
Addiction affects all walks of life. It definitely doesn’t discriminate. But, unfortunately, without treatment, it can and will eventually take your life. Evoke Wellness at Miramar offers cutting-edge addiction treatment. We offer a safe environment and treat our clients with respect. We specialize in making sure our patients have the most comfortable detox process possible. You no longer have to continue to suffer out of fear. Our specialists are here around the clock to take your call.
