Party drugs are recreational drugs normally found at dance clubs or house parties. Hard drugs such as cocaine and meth are seen as more dangerous than these types of drugs, but party drugs are not harmless. They can even be deadly.

It’s vital for parents to be informed about these kinds of drugs because:

  1. They’re attractive to young people who party
  2. They can be discreetly spiked in the commotion of a party or club

Ecstasy

(E, XTX, RAdam, Euphoria, X, MDMA, Molly, Love Doves)

Ecstasy is often found in environments where alcohol is not permitted and is popular with young adults and teens.

How it’s taken:

  • Orally
  • Snorted

Effects:

  • feelings of pleasure
  • closeness to others
  • energy
  • confidence
  • increased blood pressure
  • increased heart rate
  • sweating
  • nausea
  • jaw pain
  • blurred vision
  • vomiting
  • overheating
  • possible dehydration
  • hallucinations
  • paranoia
  • panic
  • anxiety
  • depression

In 2011, ecstasy was the cause of 22,500 emergency department visits.

Rohypnol

(Rophies, Ruffies, Roofies)

Rohypnol belongs to the same family of sedative drugs that includes Valium.

How it’s taken:

  • Orally
  • Snorted
  • Dissolved in drink

Effects:

  • Lack of memory
  • Impaired judgement
  • Dizziness
  • Blackouts
  • Sedation
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Anxiety reduction
  • Feelings of intoxication
  • Slurred speech

Sedation can last up to 8 hours.

Ketamine

(Special K, Baby Food)

Ketamine is normally found in clubs and raves and is often reported in sexual assault cases.

How it’s taken:

  • Snorted
  • Drank with alcohol
  • Smoked with marijuana

Effects:

  • Temporary amnesia
  • Hallucinations
  • Dizziness
  • Numbness
  • Blurred vision
  • Drowsiness
  • Feeling withdrawn
  • Confusion
  • Disassociation

It produces dependency and greater tolerance in some users who take the drug repeatedly.

GHB

(Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid X)

Similar to ketamine, GHB (gamma hydroxy butyrate) is found in clubs and raves and has been reported in sexual assault cases.

How it’s taken:

  • Orally by liquid

Effects:

  • Sociable feelings
  • Less inhibited
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Drowsiness
  • Amnesia
  • Vertigo
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Seizures
  • Depressed breathing
  • Coma

3 people die because of GHB overdose every year.

Be sure to read part 2 of our article, coming soon.

Concerned about your child? Request an appointment with Pediatrix.