DXM

Dextromethorphan (DXM)

DXM is a cough-suppressing ingredient in a variety of over-the-counter cold and cough medications. Dextromethorphan, a semisynthetic narcotic, is an ingredient found in any cold medicine with "DM" or "Tuss" in the title or name. There are approximately 70 different products on the market that contain DXM.

DXM acts centrally to elevate the threshold for coughing. At the doses recommended for treating coughs (1/6 to 1/3 ounce of medication, containing 15 mg to 30 mg dextromethorphan), the drug is safe and effective. At much higher doses (4 or more ounces), dextromethorphan produces disassociative effects similar to those of PCP and ketamine.

STREET TERMS: Orange Crush, Triple C's, C-C-C, Red Devils, Skittles, DXM, Dex, Vitamin D, Robo, Robo-trippin', Robo-dosing.

DXM EFFECTS: Euphoria, enhanced awareness, impaired judgment, loss of coordination, dizziness, nausea, seizures, panic attacks, psychosis, brain damage, and addiction. Coma and death may result from taking cold medicines with DXM. Tolerance and physical dependence may develop with prolonged use. Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, muscle or bone aches, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, and cold flashes with goose bumps (“cold turkey”).

Recent reports indicate that a powdered form of DXM is available on the Internet. Internet sites also inform young users to drink cough syrup expeditiously in order to absorb enough DXM from the drink prior to the impending incidence of vomiting which will occur as a result of the ingestion of the large volume of syrup required for intoxication.
Source: DEA Diversion Control Program, August 2001

Teens have been reported to drink three or four bottles of cough syrup in one day and take up to 20-30 tablets of Coricidin at once. There have been reported cases of overdoses that have resulted in coma and death.

REPORT: (Posted 12.20.06)

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Dusting (see Inhalants)

Inhalants

Inhalants are common household and workplace substances that are sniffed or huffed to give the user an immediate head rush or high. Inhalants are "sniffed" from an open container or "huffed" from a rag soaked in the substance and held to the face. A new trend, "dusting," involves inhaling common computer cleaners (One brand is Dust-Off) - several deaths have occured.

Inhalants include a diverse group of chemicals that are found in consumer products such as aerosols, plastic cement, nail polish remover, lighter fluid, hair spray, insecticides, and cleaning solvents. Their easy accessibility, low cost, and ease of concealment make inhalants, for many, one of the first substances abused. While not regulated under the CSA, a few states place restrictions on the sale of these products to minors. Studies have shown that between 5 and 15 percent of young people in the United States have tried inhalants, although the vast majority of these youngsters do not become chronic abusers.

USING INHALANTS, EVEN JUST ONE TIME, CAN PUT YOU AT RISK FOR:
sudden death (presumably from cardiac arrest), suffocation (typically seen with inhalant users who use bags), asphyxia (solvent gases can significantly limit available oxygen in the air, causing breathing to stop), visual hallucinations and severe mood swings, numbness and tingling of the hands and feet, loss of muscle control, slurred speech, headache, muscle weakness, abdominal pain, decrease or loss of sense of smell, nausea and nosebleeds, hepatitis, violent behavior, irregular heartbeat, liver, lung, and kidney impairment, brain damage, nervous system damage, dangerous chemical imbalances in the body, and involuntary passing of urine and feces.

Entry into the brain is so fast that the effects of inhalation can resemble the intensity of effects produced by intravenous injection or other psychoactive drugs. The effects of inhalant intoxication resemble those of alcohol inebriation, with stimulation and loss of inhibition followed by depression at high doses. Users report distortion in perceptions of time and space. Many users experience headache, nausea or vomiting, slurred speech, loss of motor coordination, and wheezing. A characteristic "glue-sniffer's rash" around the nose and mouth is also common. An odor of paint or solvents on clothes, skin and breath is also a sign of inhalant abuse. The chronic use of inhalants has been associated with a number of serious health problems. Glue and paint thinner sniffing in particular produce kidney abnormalities, while the solvents, toluene and trichloralethylene, cause liver toxicity. Memory impairment, attention deficits, and diminished non-verbal intelligence have been associated with the abuse of inhalants. Death resulting from heart failure, asphyxiation, or aspiration have occurred as well.

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DOM

DOB, 2C-B / NEXUS, & DOM

Many chemical variations of mescaline and amphetamine have been synthesized for their "feel good" effects. MDMA (Ecstasy) is the most popular and widely abused variation used today.

DOM (4-Methyl-2,5-dimethoxyamphetamine) was introduced to the San Francisco drug scene in the late 1960's and given the nickname "STP," an acronym for "Serenity, Tranquility, and Peace." Doses of 1 to 3 milligrams generally produce mood alterations and minor perceptual alterations while larger doses can produce pronounced hallucinations that last from 8 to 10 hours.

Other illicitly manufactured analogues include 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyamphetamine (DOB), 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B, NEXUS). These drugs differ from one another in their potency, speed of onset, duration of action, and their capacity to modify mood with or without producing overt hallucinations. The drugs are usually taken orally but are sometimes snorted or injected (rarely). Because they are produced in clandestine laboratories, they are seldom pure and the amount of the drug in a capsule or tablet is likely to vary considerably.

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DOB

DOB, 2C-B / NEXUS, & DOM

Many chemical variations of mescaline and amphetamine have been synthesized for their "feel good" effects. MDMA (Ecstasy) is the most popular and widely abused variation used today.

DOM (4-Methyl-2,5-dimethoxyamphetamine) was introduced to the San Francisco drug scene in the late 1960's and given the nickname "STP," an acronym for "Serenity, Tranquility, and Peace." Doses of 1 to 3 milligrams generally produce mood alterations and minor perceptual alterations while larger doses can produce pronounced hallucinations that last from 8 to 10 hours.

Other illicitly manufactured analogues include 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyamphetamine (DOB), 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B, NEXUS). These drugs differ from one another in their potency, speed of onset, duration of action, and their capacity to modify mood with or without producing overt hallucinations. The drugs are usually taken orally but are sometimes snorted or injected (rarely). Because they are produced in clandestine laboratories, they are seldom pure and the amount of the drug in a capsule or tablet is likely to vary considerably.

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DMT

PSILOCYBIN/PSILOCYN (MAGIC MUSHROOMS): A number of Schedule I hallucinogenic substances are classified chemically as tryptamines. Most of these are found in nature but many, if not all, can be produced synthetically. Psilocybin (O-phosphoryl-4-hydroxy-N, N-ethyltryptamine) and psilocyn (4-hydroxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine) are obtained from certain mushrooms indigenous to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Mexico, and the United States. As pure chemicals at doses of 10 to 20 mg, these hallucinogens produce muscle relaxation, dilation of pupils, vivid visual and auditory distortions, and emotional disturbances. However, the effects produced by consuming preparations of dried or brewed mushrooms are far less predictable and largely depend on the particular mushrooms used and the age and preservation of the extract. There are many species of "magic" mushrooms that contain varying amounts of these tryptamines, as well as uncertain amounts of other chemicals. As a consequence, the hallucinogenic activity, as well as the extent of toxicity produced by various plant samples, are often unknown.

DIMETHYLTRYPTAMIN (DMT) has a long history of use and is found in a variety of plants and seeds. It can also be produced synthetically. It is ineffective when taken orally, unless combined with another drug that inhibits its metabolism. Generally it is sniffed, smoked, or injected. The effective hallucinogenic dose in humans is about 50 to 100 mg and lasts for about 45 to 60 minutes. Because the effects last only about an hour; the experience has been referred to as a "businessman’s trip."

A number of other hallucinogens have very similar structures and properties to those of DMT. Diethyltryptamine (DET), for example, is an analogue of DMT and produces the same pharmacological effects but is somewhat less potent than DMT. Alpha-ethyltryptamine (AET) is another tryptamine hallucinogen added to the list of Schedule I hallucinogens in 1994. Bufotenine (5-hydroxy-N-N-dimethyltryptamine) is a Schedule I substance found in certain mushrooms, seeds, and skin glands of Bufo toads. In general, most bufotenine preparations from natural sources are extremely toxic. N,N-Diisopropyl-5-methoxytryptamine (referred to as Foxy-Methoxy) is an orally active tryptamine recently encountered in the United States. (Source: DEA)

Alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT), known as "spirals," was designated a Schedule I drug by the DEA in April of 2003. 5-methoxy-alpha-methyltryptamine (5-MeO-AMT) is also a tryptamine. Other common names for 5-MeO-AMT are "alpha-O", "alpha" and "O-DMS."

EFFECTS: Users of tryptamines typically experience a multitude of effects. These effects include hallucinations, euphoria, dilated pupils, empathy, visual and auditory disturbances/distortions, “feelings of love,” and emotional distress. Some users may experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Tryptamines, like Foxy and AMT, are very dose dependent, which means that the doubling of a moderate dose could result in effects similar to LSD. The duration of effects from 20 mg of AMT usually last between 12 and 24 hours, while the effects from 6 to 10 mg of Foxy reportedly last from 3 to 6 hours. (Source: DEA)

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Dots (LSD)

D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is the most potent hallucinogenic substance known to man. Dosages of LSD are measured in micrograms, or millionths of a gram. By comparison, dosages of cocaine and heroin are measured in milligrams, or thousandths of a gram. Compared to other hallucinogenic substances, LSD is 100 times more potent than psilocybin and psilocin and 4,000 times more potent than mescaline.

The dosage level that will produce an hallucinogenic effect in humans generally is considered to be 25 micrograms. Over the past several years, the potency of LSD obtained during drug law enforcement operations has ranged between 20 and 80 micrograms per dosage unit. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recognizes 50 micrograms as the standard dosage unit equivalency.

LSD is classified as a Schedule I drug in the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. As a Schedule I drug, LSD meets the following three criteria: it is deemed to have a high potential for abuse; it has no legitimate medical use in treatment; and, there is a lack of accepted safety for its use under medical supervision

LSD was synthesized in 1938 by a chemist working for Sandoz Laboratories in Switzerland. It was developed initially as a circulatory and respiratory stimulant. However, no extraordinary benefits of the compound were identified and its study was discontinued. In the 1940's, interest in the drug was revived when it was thought to be a possible treatment for schizophrenia. Because of LSD's structural relationship to a chemical that is present in the brain and its similarity in effect to certain aspects of psychosis, LSD was used as a research tool in studies of mental illness.

The effects of LSD are unpredictable. They depend on the amount taken, the user's personality, mood and expectations, and the surroundings in which the drug is used. Usually, the user feels the first effects of the drug 30-90 minutes after taking it. These effects include dilated pupils, higher body temperature, increased heart rate and blood pressure, sweating, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, dry mouth, and tremors. Sensations and feelings change much more dramatically than the physical signs. The user may feel several different emotions at once or swing rapidly from one emotion to another. Depending on the dose, the drug can produce delusions and visual hallucinations, which can be frightening and cause panic. Users refer to their experience with these acute adverse reactions as a "bad trip," and the effects typically last for about twelve hours. Terrifying thoughts and feelings, fear of insanity and death, injuries, and fatal accidents have occurred during states of LSD intoxication. Anyone can experience a bad trip and there is no way to predict what your own experience will be.

LSD is being concealed in candy Sweet Tarts by simply placing a clear drop of the drug in the tart. Tarts may or may not have a slight discoloration such as on the pink tart above. Tarts are becoming more popular as a method of concealment. Tarts are used in this instance, however, many other candy products can be used as well.

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Dissociative Drugs

Hallucinogens & Dissociative Drugs

Hallucinogens and dissociative drugs are both categories of drugs that alter a persons' state of mind and mood. Hallucinogens can cause a person to hallucinate--that is to see, hear, or feel things that aren't actually real. Hallucinogens include LSD, Mescaline (Peyote), Psilocybin, and Psilocyn (Mushrooms). Dissociative drugs, such as Ketamine or PCP, alter a persons state of mind and mood but do not cause a person to hallucinate. Dissociative drugs cause a person to detach, or dissociate, from his or her surroundings.

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Dimethyltryptamine

PSILOCYBIN/PSILOCYN (MAGIC MUSHROOMS): A number of Schedule I hallucinogenic substances are classified chemically as tryptamines. Most of these are found in nature but many, if not all, can be produced synthetically. Psilocybin (O-phosphoryl-4-hydroxy-N, N-ethyltryptamine) and psilocyn (4-hydroxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine) are obtained from certain mushrooms indigenous to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Mexico, and the United States. As pure chemicals at doses of 10 to 20 mg, these hallucinogens produce muscle relaxation, dilation of pupils, vivid visual and auditory distortions, and emotional disturbances. However, the effects produced by consuming preparations of dried or brewed mushrooms are far less predictable and largely depend on the particular mushrooms used and the age and preservation of the extract. There are many species of "magic" mushrooms that contain varying amounts of these tryptamines, as well as uncertain amounts of other chemicals. As a consequence, the hallucinogenic activity, as well as the extent of toxicity produced by various plant samples, are often unknown.

DIMETHYLTRYPTAMIN (DMT) has a long history of use and is found in a variety of plants and seeds. It can also be produced synthetically. It is ineffective when taken orally, unless combined with another drug that inhibits its metabolism. Generally it is sniffed, smoked, or injected. The effective hallucinogenic dose in humans is about 50 to 100 mg and lasts for about 45 to 60 minutes. Because the effects last only about an hour; the experience has been referred to as a "businessman’s trip."

A number of other hallucinogens have very similar structures and properties to those of DMT. Diethyltryptamine (DET), for example, is an analogue of DMT and produces the same pharmacological effects but is somewhat less potent than DMT. Alpha-ethyltryptamine (AET) is another tryptamine hallucinogen added to the list of Schedule I hallucinogens in 1994. Bufotenine (5-hydroxy-N-N-dimethyltryptamine) is a Schedule I substance found in certain mushrooms, seeds, and skin glands of Bufo toads. In general, most bufotenine preparations from natural sources are extremely toxic. N,N-Diisopropyl-5-methoxytryptamine (referred to as Foxy-Methoxy) is an orally active tryptamine recently encountered in the United States. (Source: DEA)

Alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT), known as "spirals," was designated a Schedule I drug by the DEA in April of 2003. 5-methoxy-alpha-methyltryptamine (5-MeO-AMT) is also a tryptamine. Other common names for 5-MeO-AMT are "alpha-O", "alpha" and "O-DMS."

EFFECTS: Users of tryptamines typically experience a multitude of effects. These effects include hallucinations, euphoria, dilated pupils, empathy, visual and auditory disturbances/distortions, “feelings of love,” and emotional distress. Some users may experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Tryptamines, like Foxy and AMT, are very dose dependent, which means that the doubling of a moderate dose could result in effects similar to LSD. The duration of effects from 20 mg of AMT usually last between 12 and 24 hours, while the effects from 6 to 10 mg of Foxy reportedly last from 3 to 6 hours. (Source: DEA)

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Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements are marketed as “performance enhancers,” “energy boosters,” “fat burners,” “street drug alternatives,” or “legal highs” on the internet, television, and in nutrition stores. With the increased attention to Ephedra, which was recently banned by the FDA, other products are quickly gaining attention. These new products, promoted as safe, ephedra-free supplements, are considered to be just as risky as Ephedra-based supplements. There are two reasons they are dangerous: 1) the supplements contain high levels of stimulants often in combination with caffeine 2) the makers of the supplements are not required to list the quantity or amount of the stimulants that are in their products.

WHAT IS A DIETARY SUPPLEMENT?

Congress defined the term "dietary supplement" in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. A dietary supplement is a product taken by mouth that contains a "dietary ingredient" intended to supplement the diet. The "dietary ingredients" in these products may include: vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and substances such as enzymes, organ tissues, glandulars, and metabolites. Dietary supplements can also be extracts or concentrates, and may be found in many forms such as tablets, capsules, soft gels, gel caps, liquids, or powders. They can also be in other forms, such as a bar, but if they are, information on their label must not represent the product as a conventional food or a sole item of a meal or diet. Whatever their form may be, DSHEA places dietary supplements in a special category under the general umbrella of "foods," not drugs, and requires that every supplement be labeled a dietary supplement.
Source: FDA

EPHEDRA (aka epitonin, ma huang, sida cordifolia, sinica) is a herbal stimulant and a main ingredient in energy-enhancing and weight loss products. Several organizations, including the American Medical Association and Health Canada have recommended banning the sale of ephedra and many other organizations, including the National Collegiate Athletics Association, the International Olympic Committee, and the National Football League, prohibit the use of products containing ephedra.

China is a major manufacturer of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine and is one of the world’s primary exporters of both chemicals. China owns and operates ephedra farms, where ephedra grass (ephedra sinica) is cultivated under strict government control. The active alkaloids, pseudoephedrine and ephedrine, are chemically extracted from the plant material and processed for pharmaceutical purposes. These chemicals are then sold domestically and internationally. China and India are the major producers of these chemicals when extracted from the ephedra plant.
Source: DEA, March 2002

In low doses, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine act as nasal decongestants. Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are ingredients in many over-the-counter asthma medications and are also key components in illegal methamphetamine manufacturing. In high doses, the stimulant effects of these drugs can raise blood pressure and many studies have linked ephedra use to heart attacks, strokes, seizures, psychosis, insomnia and heatstroke. Those people suffering from kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, glaucoma, heart disease or high blood pressure, thyroid disease, emphysema or chronic bronchitis, have an enlarged prostate, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking an MAOI are advised NOT to take products containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine.

A recent study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine and based on information collected by the American Association of Poison Control Centers concluded:

* In 2001, U.S. poison control centers reported 1,178 adverse reactions to ephedra dietary supplements.

* Products containing ephedra accounted for 64% of all adverse reactions to herbs in the United States, yet these products represented only 0.82% of herbal product sales. The relative risks for an adverse reaction in persons using ephedra compared with other herbs were extremely high. Even with an extreme high estimate for ephedra's share of the total herbal market (13.5%), the relative risks for adverse reactions among ephedra users were still 10- to 40-fold greater than the risk among users of other herbal products.

Source: "The Relative Safety of Ephedra Compared with Other Herbal Products," Stephen Bent, MD; Thomas N. Tiedt, PhD; Michelle C. Odden, BS; and Michael G. Shlipak, MD, MPH; Annals of Internal Medicine. 2003;138:000-000.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS:

Bitter Orange: (citrus aurantium, aka green orange, neroli oil) contains a stimulant, synephrine that is similar to Ephedra. Given its similarities, experts believe Bitter Orange may have the same adverse effects as Ephedra.

Guarana: contains 2-3 times more caffeine than coffee, other caffeine-containing supplements include kola and mate.

Green Tea Extract: Contains less caffeine than coffee , contains antioxidants, is often combined with other caffeine-based supplements.

Usnic acid: Touted as a weight loss aid, FDA issued warning about it in 2001, possible liver damage associated with use.

Aristolochic acid: Touted as a weight loss aid, FDA issued warning about it in 2001, possible cancer and kidney damage associated with use.

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Dextropropoxyphene

Dextropropoxyphene

A close relative of methadone, dextropropoxyphene was first marketed in 1957 under the trade name of Darvon®. Oral analgesic potency is one-half to one-third that of codeine, with 65 mg approximately equivalent to about 600 mg of aspirin. Dextropropoxyphene is prescribed for relief of mild to moderate pain. Bulk dextropropoxyphene is in Schedule II, while preparations containing it are in Schedule IV. More than 100 tons of dextropropoxyphene are produced in the United States annually, and more than 30 million prescriptions are written for the products. This narcotic is associated with a number of toxic side effects and is among the top 10 drugs reported by medical examiners in drug abuse deaths.

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Dextromethorphan

Dextromethorphan (DXM)

DXM is a cough-suppressing ingredient in a variety of over-the-counter cold and cough medications. Dextromethorphan, a semisynthetic narcotic, is an ingredient found in any cold medicine with "DM" or "Tuss" in the title or name. There are approximately 70 different products on the market that contain DXM.

DXM acts centrally to elevate the threshold for coughing. At the doses recommended for treating coughs (1/6 to 1/3 ounce of medication, containing 15 mg to 30 mg dextromethorphan), the drug is safe and effective. At much higher doses (4 or more ounces), dextromethorphan produces disassociative effects similar to those of PCP and ketamine.

STREET TERMS: Orange Crush, Triple C's, C-C-C, Red Devils, Skittles, DXM, Dex, Vitamin D, Robo, Robo-trippin', Robo-dosing.

DXM EFFECTS: Euphoria, enhanced awareness, impaired judgment, loss of coordination, dizziness, nausea, seizures, panic attacks, psychosis, brain damage, and addiction. Coma and death may result from taking cold medicines with DXM. Tolerance and physical dependence may develop with prolonged use. Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, muscle or bone aches, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, and cold flashes with goose bumps (“cold turkey”).

Recent reports indicate that a powdered form of DXM is available on the Internet. Internet sites also inform young users to drink cough syrup expeditiously in order to absorb enough DXM from the drink prior to the impending incidence of vomiting which will occur as a result of the ingestion of the large volume of syrup required for intoxication.
Source: DEA Diversion Control Program, August 2001

Teens have been reported to drink three or four bottles of cough syrup in one day and take up to 20-30 tablets of Coricidin at once. There have been reported cases of overdoses that have resulted in coma and death.

REPORT: (Posted 12.20.06)

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Dexedrine (Amphetamine)

Amphetamine

Amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine, are collectively referred to as amphetamines. Their chemical properties and actions are so similar that even experienced users have difficulty knowing which drug they have taken.

Amphetamine was first marketed in the 1930s as Benzedrine in an over-the-counter inhaler to treat nasal congestion. By 1937 amphetamine was available by prescription in tablet form and was used in the treatment of the sleeping disorder narcolepsy and the behavioral syndrome called minimal brain dysfunction (MBD), which today is called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

During World War II, amphetamine was widely used to keep the fighting men going; both dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methamphetamine (Methedrine) became readily available. As use of amphetamines spread, so did their abuse. Amphetamines became a cure-all for helping truckers to complete their long routes without falling asleep, for weight control, for helping athletes to perform better and train longer, and for treating mild depression. Intravenous amphetamine abuse spread among a subculture known as "speed freaks." With experience, it became evident that the dangers of abuse of these drugs outweighed most of their therapeutic uses.

Today, amphetamine is used as an aid in treating narcolepsy, some forms of depression, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Yet, due to its potential for abuse or addiction, other treatment methods are used more frequently.

BRAND NAME AMPHETAMINES: Adderall, Desoxyn, Desoxyn Gradumet, Dexedrine, Dexedrine Spansule and DestroStat.

SIGNS OF AMPHETAMINE OVERDOSE: Symptoms include restlessness, tremors, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, panic, aggressiveness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, an irregular heartbeat, and seizures.

WITHDRAWL EFFECTS: depression, stomach cramps, nausea or vomiting, "the shakes," tiredness.

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DET

PSILOCYBIN/PSILOCYN (MAGIC MUSHROOMS): A number of Schedule I hallucinogenic substances are classified chemically as tryptamines. Most of these are found in nature but many, if not all, can be produced synthetically. Psilocybin (O-phosphoryl-4-hydroxy-N, N-ethyltryptamine) and psilocyn (4-hydroxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine) are obtained from certain mushrooms indigenous to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Mexico, and the United States. As pure chemicals at doses of 10 to 20 mg, these hallucinogens produce muscle relaxation, dilation of pupils, vivid visual and auditory distortions, and emotional disturbances. However, the effects produced by consuming preparations of dried or brewed mushrooms are far less predictable and largely depend on the particular mushrooms used and the age and preservation of the extract. There are many species of "magic" mushrooms that contain varying amounts of these tryptamines, as well as uncertain amounts of other chemicals. As a consequence, the hallucinogenic activity, as well as the extent of toxicity produced by various plant samples, are often unknown.

DIMETHYLTRYPTAMIN (DMT) has a long history of use and is found in a variety of plants and seeds. It can also be produced synthetically. It is ineffective when taken orally, unless combined with another drug that inhibits its metabolism. Generally it is sniffed, smoked, or injected. The effective hallucinogenic dose in humans is about 50 to 100 mg and lasts for about 45 to 60 minutes. Because the effects last only about an hour; the experience has been referred to as a "businessman’s trip."

A number of other hallucinogens have very similar structures and properties to those of DMT. Diethyltryptamine (DET), for example, is an analogue of DMT and produces the same pharmacological effects but is somewhat less potent than DMT. Alpha-ethyltryptamine (AET) is another tryptamine hallucinogen added to the list of Schedule I hallucinogens in 1994. Bufotenine (5-hydroxy-N-N-dimethyltryptamine) is a Schedule I substance found in certain mushrooms, seeds, and skin glands of Bufo toads. In general, most bufotenine preparations from natural sources are extremely toxic. N,N-Diisopropyl-5-methoxytryptamine (referred to as Foxy-Methoxy) is an orally active tryptamine recently encountered in the United States. (Source: DEA)

Alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT), known as "spirals," was designated a Schedule I drug by the DEA in April of 2003. 5-methoxy-alpha-methyltryptamine (5-MeO-AMT) is also a tryptamine. Other common names for 5-MeO-AMT are "alpha-O", "alpha" and "O-DMS."

EFFECTS: Users of tryptamines typically experience a multitude of effects. These effects include hallucinations, euphoria, dilated pupils, empathy, visual and auditory disturbances/distortions, “feelings of love,” and emotional distress. Some users may experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Tryptamines, like Foxy and AMT, are very dose dependent, which means that the doubling of a moderate dose could result in effects similar to LSD. The duration of effects from 20 mg of AMT usually last between 12 and 24 hours, while the effects from 6 to 10 mg of Foxy reportedly last from 3 to 6 hours. (Source: DEA)

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Depressants

Depressants

Depressants are substances that depress the activity of the central nervous system. Depressants are often referred to as "downers" because of their sedative, hypnotic and tranquilizing effects. There are both legal and illegal depressants. Alcohol is the most common legal depressant. Other depressants that are legal are often prescribed medications used to induce sleep, relieve stress, and subdue anxiety. These prescriptions are often abused as well, such as the case with rohypnol. GHB is an illegal depressant often used in drug-facilitated sexual assaults because of its sedative properties.

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Date Rape Drugs

Date Rape Drugs

Rohypnol, GHB (and it's analogs), and Ketamine are considered date rape drugs because of their sedative effects. These drugs are also referred to as "predatory" drugs.

These drugs are often undetectable as they are odorless and colorless when mixed with water. The drugs tend to have a salty taste, but, when mixed with alcohol, soda, or other beverages, they are virtually undetectable. The drugs also metabolize quickly in the body leaving little physical evidence that an attack occurred. These drugs can also cause "blackouts" or anterograde amnesia where a person is unable to recall what happened to them.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF?

Do not take a beverage from someone you do not trust.
Do not leave your beverage unattended.
Do not take a drink from a punch bowl.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK I HAVE BEEN DRUGGED?

Get help right away by requesting a drug screen. Date rape drugs are metabolized in the body very quickly and may be difficult to detect (in as little as 12 hours).

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D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)

D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is the most potent hallucinogenic substance known to man. Dosages of LSD are measured in micrograms, or millionths of a gram. By comparison, dosages of cocaine and heroin are measured in milligrams, or thousandths of a gram. Compared to other hallucinogenic substances, LSD is 100 times more potent than psilocybin and psilocin and 4,000 times more potent than mescaline.

The dosage level that will produce an hallucinogenic effect in humans generally is considered to be 25 micrograms. Over the past several years, the potency of LSD obtained during drug law enforcement operations has ranged between 20 and 80 micrograms per dosage unit. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recognizes 50 micrograms as the standard dosage unit equivalency.

LSD is classified as a Schedule I drug in the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. As a Schedule I drug, LSD meets the following three criteria: it is deemed to have a high potential for abuse; it has no legitimate medical use in treatment; and, there is a lack of accepted safety for its use under medical supervision.

LSD was synthesized in 1938 by a chemist working for Sandoz Laboratories in Switzerland. It was developed initially as a circulatory and respiratory stimulant. However, no extraordinary benefits of the compound were identified and its study was discontinued. In the 1940's, interest in the drug was revived when it was thought to be a possible treatment for schizophrenia. Because of LSD's structural relationship to a chemical that is present in the brain and its similarity in effect to certain aspects of psychosis, LSD was used as a research tool in studies of mental illness.

The effects of LSD are unpredictable. They depend on the amount taken, the user's personality, mood and expectations, and the surroundings in which the drug is used. Usually, the user feels the first effects of the drug 30-90 minutes after taking it. These effects include dilated pupils, higher body temperature, increased heart rate and blood pressure, sweating, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, dry mouth, and tremors. Sensations and feelings change much more dramatically than the physical signs. The user may feel several different emotions at once or swing rapidly from one emotion to another. Depending on the dose, the drug can produce delusions and visual hallucinations, which can be frightening and cause panic. Users refer to their experience with these acute adverse reactions as a "bad trip," and the effects typically last for about twelve hours. Terrifying thoughts and feelings, fear of insanity and death, injuries, and fatal accidents have occurred during states of LSD intoxication. Anyone can experience a bad trip and there is no way to predict what your own experience will be.

LSD is being concealed in candy Sweet Tarts by simply placing a clear drop of the drug in the tart. Tarts may or may not have a slight discoloration such as on the pink tart above. Tarts are becoming more popular as a method of concealment. Tarts are used in this instance, however, many other candy products can be used as well.

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A & D

vitamin A, D, and E (topical)
Pronunciation: VYE ta min A, D, and E Brand: A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical

What is the most important information I should know about vitamin A, D, and E topical?

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Call your doctor if your skin condition does not get better after using this medication regularly for 1 week. Contact your doctor at any time if your symptoms get worse.

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Call your doctor at once if you have swelling, redness, itching, pus, or other signs of infection. Tell your doctor if you feel any numbness or tingling while using vitamin A, D, and E topical.

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Do not apply vitamin A, D, and E topical over large skin areas. Do not use the medicine to treat a deep cut, an animal bite, or a serious burn. Call your doctor for instructions on how to treat these more severe skin injuries.

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Avoid applying other creams, lotions, ointments, or other medicated skin products to the same areas you treat with vitamin A, D, and E topical.

What is vitamin A, D, and E topical?

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Vitamin A, D, and E topical is a skin protectant. It works by moisturizing and sealing the skin, and aids in skin healing.

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This medication is used to treat diaper rash, dry or chafed skin, and minor cuts or burns.

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Vitamin A, D, and E may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using vitamin A, D, and E topical?

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Call your doctor at once if you have swelling, redness, itching, pus, or other signs of infection. Tell your doctor if you feel any numbness or tingling while using vitamin A, D, and E topical.

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Before using vitamin A, D, and E topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medicines or skin products, including soaps, oils, lotions, or creams.

How should I use vitamin A, D, and E topical?

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Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not use more of the medication or use it for longer than recommended.

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Keep the baby's diaper area as dry as possible. Change wet or soiled diapers immediately to keep wetness and bacteria from irritating the baby's skin. Always put on a new diaper when the baby first wakes up in the morning, and also just before putting the baby to bed each night.

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At each diaper changing, clean the baby's skin thoroughly with a disposable baby wipe or clean wet washcloth. Gently wipe inside the skin folds between the thighs and genitals. When cleaning the diaper area of a boy, gently clean under the scrotum and beneath the foreskin of the penis. When cleaning the diaper area of a girl, always wipe from front to back across the vagina.

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Call your doctor if your skin condition does not get better after using this medication regularly for 1 week. Contact your doctor at any time if your symptoms get worse.

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Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

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It is unlikely that this medication would cause serious problems from an overdose. Do not apply vitamin A, D, and E topical over large skin areas. Call your doctor if you think you have used too much of the medicine.

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Call a poison control center if anyone accidentally swallows this medicine.

What should I avoid while using vitamin A, D, and E topical?

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Avoid applying other creams, lotions, ointments, or other medicated skin products to the same areas you treat with vitamin A, D, and E topical.

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Avoid excessive wetness of the skin areas you are treating. Keep clothing and diapers as dry as possible.

What are the possible side effects of vitamin A, D, and E topical?

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Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

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This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect vitamin A, D, and E topical?

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There may be other drugs that can affect vitamin A, D, and E topical. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

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Your pharmacist can provide more information about vitamin A, D, and E topical.

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