Trick, Not a Treat: Reports of Krokodil Use Make Cause for Concern this Halloween Season

Trick, Not a Treat

Reports of Krokodil Use Make Cause for Concern this Halloween Season

This Halloween season, belly aches from excess candy corn consumption are the least of the public’s worries. There have been several reports of Krokodil, or Desomorphine use within The United States, and authorities feel that this drug could soon take the place of Heroin.

Krokodil, or Desomorphone, is an Opioid. Thus, like other Opioids, this drug has a sedative and analgesic effect. Krokodil is attractive to Opioid dependent individuals because it can easily be made with paint thinner, Hydrochloric Acid, lighter fluid, Red Phosphorus, Codine and Iodine. Since Desomorphone can be “homemade”, it is both cheaper and more easily attainable than such Opioids as Heroin and Oxycodone. In that it is eight times more potent than most other Opioids and incredibly fast-acting; Krokodil or Desomorphone use is an alarming trend this fall.

Krokodil use is new within The United States. However, this drug has been popular in other countries for a number of years and is specifically prevalent in Russia. The term Krokodil derives from the Russian word for crocodile, as one of the drug’s side effects includes the development of green and scaly skin. Other side effects of this drug include; abcesses, gangrene, blood vessel rupture, tissue damage, deterioration of motor skills, severe brain damage and death. Chronic Desomorphone users should not expect to live longer than two to three years. This can be compared to an average 6-7 year life-span o of an individual after becoming a Heroin addict.

As Krokodil is an Opioid, it is highly addictive. As it becomes more prevalent within The United States, it is expected that addiction rates will rise. If you are concerned that someone you know may be suffering from an addiction this Halloween season, look for the following signs:

·         Changes in appetite, sleep patterns and/or weight

·         Blood shot eyes or pupil dilation

·         Unusual smells on clothing, breath or body

·         Tremors, impaired coordination and/or slurred speech

·         Deterioration of school or work attendance/performance

·         Unexplained financial problems

·         Engagement in secret or suspicious behavior

·         Changes in attitude or personality

·         Sudden mood swings

·         Lack of motivation

·         Periods of unusual hyperactivity and paranoia

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC, located in Concord, New Hampshire, has a background in supporting individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions. If you or someone you know is struggling with Krokodil addiction, or any other addiction, Selfempnh can help, as we are here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system. For more information, please contact Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC at (603)470-6937or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.