Designer drugs are synthetic versions of existing drugs and cause similar effects. Those who make designer drugs chemically aim to manufacture products with similar effects to controlled and illicit substances. These drugs have serious consequences and are unpredictable. The California Narcotic Officers' Association reports that designer drugs have a high addiction liability and many do not fall under controlled drug provisions.
Alpha-methylfentanyl
Alpha-methylfentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid and designed to have effects similar to heroin. The illicit drug is an analog of fenatyl and one of the first examples of designer drugs. Fenatyl analogs such as alpha-methylfentanyl are 80 to 100 times more potent than heroin and have powerful toxic effects, according to The Children’ Hospital. Commonly referred to as China White, Alpha-methylfentanyl has short durations and rapidly produces effects on the body. The designer drug is a powdery substance and commonly administered through injection.
LSD
Lysergic acid diethylamide, otherwise known as LSD, is a hallucinogenic designer drug. The drug is a product of lysergic acid and disrupts serotonin and nerve cell interaction in the body. LSD causes hallucinations and because of its affect on the serotonin system, the drug alters the perceptual, behavioral and regulatory systems. Short-term complications of the drug include increased blood pressure and heart rate, raised body temperature, tremors and sweating, among other symptoms. Long-term effects include long-lasting psychosis and hallucinogen-induced persisting perceptual disorder that causes recurrences of flashbacks, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. LSD comes in capsule, tablet and liquid forms and similar hallucinogens include PCP, peyote and psilocybin.
MDMA
MDMA is a designer drug that chemically resembles the properties of amphetamines and methamphetamines. The drug releases serotonin in the body and causes hallucinations, confusion, increased energy, distortions of bodily functions and feelings of europhia. The substance acts as both a stimulant and hallucinogen and disrupts the function of the mind. MDMA comes in tablet or capsule form and the substance is an addictive property, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Common terms for MDMA include “e” and “ecstasy,” and the drug causes short- and long-term physical and psychological effects.
