Mephedrone Addiction

Written by:

Nicki Hari

Last Updated:

May 7th, 2024

Mephedrone, a synthetic stimulant, gained infamy in the late 2000s as a party drug and legal high, also known as “Meow Meow” or “MCAT.” Despite being initially legal and sold as “plant fertiliser” online, its rapid rise caught UK authorities off guard. However, it soon revealed its dangers, including addiction, overdose, and health risks. Understanding its roots, consequences, and treatment options is crucial for those affected.

What is Mephedrone?

Mephedrone, belonging to the cathinone class of drugs, shares similarities with MDMA (ecstasy) and amphetamines in its effects. Originally marketed as a legal and cheaper alternative to controlled substances, it swiftly gained popularity among British club-goers and recreational users. However, after high-profile cases of lethal overdose, the UK banned mephedrone in 2011, classifying it as a Class-B drug. Typically snorted like cocaine, it induces rapid effects such as increased energy, euphoria, and heightened sociability. Despite these desirable effects, mephedrone also carries numerous adverse side effects, including:

  • Teeth grinding
  • Poor short-term memory
  • Problems focusing visually
  • Erratic behaviour
  • Hallucinations and delusions

Across the world, mephedrone’s legality and availability have fluctuated over the years due to increasing concerns about its safety and potential for harm. Today, despite being banned in many countries, mephedrone continues to be used illicitly and remains a significant concern in the UK.

What is mephedrone addiction?

Mephedrone addiction is a form of legal high addiction which results in compulsive drug use despite obvious negative consequences.

Mephedrone addiction usually stems from recreational use, often at a party, club or with friends. However, what may start as an occasional thrill can become slippery with your body adapting to mephedrone and requiring bigger doses. This is known as tolerance, and it is a very common marker on the path to addiction.

Tolerance can quickly spiral into physical dependence, where not taking mephedrone causes withdrawal symptoms to flare up. At the same time, your mind can start to believe that you need mephedrone to enjoy life or handle your day. This psychological dependency, in unison with the physical one, is what locks in mephedrone addiction, with your life slowly taking over entirely. Once locked in, obtaining and using mephedrone becomes the most important thing in your life at the expense of all else.

Mephedrone addiction signs to look out for

Mephedrone use may start as a controlled weekend release, but mephedrone addiction can creep up on you without warning. Here are some of the key mephedrone addiction signs that may suggest your use has become problematic:

  • You are using mephedrone more frequently than before.
  • You feel a strong compulsion to use mephedrone, especially during stressful times.
  • Attempts to stop using have been unsuccessful, even if you want to quit.
  • You spend much of your time thinking about mephedrone.
  • You are ignoring the physical and mental health issues caused by mephedrone
  • You have stopped caring about your responsibilities at home, work or school.
  • You continue to use mephedrone despite it causing trouble in your relationships.
  • You experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability or depression when not using.

Acknowledging these mephedrone addiction signs can be a critical step toward recovery. Early identification can lead to early intervention, and this greatly increases the chances of successfully overcoming mephedrone addiction.

Why is mephedrone addictive?

Addiction is a non-biased condition that can affect people of every demographic. However, there are a number of underlying causes and risk factors which explain why some people might be more prone to addiction than others.

Mephedrone addiction, like many substance dependencies, is influenced by a mix of genetic, psychological and environmental factors.

On the genetic front, those with a family history of addiction may have inherited traits that make them more susceptible to substance abuse.

Environmentally, being in a family, community or social circle where drug use is prevalent can increase exposure and normalise the behaviour, raising the likelihood of mephedrone use and subsequent addiction.

Psychologically, individuals experiencing stress, emotional pain or mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety might seek out the euphoric escape mephedrone provides.

Early exposure to any drug use, especially during critical developmental years in youth, can also heighten the risk of developing an addiction later on.
If you or someone you know is dealing with one or more of these risk factors, being mindful of the potential for addiction is crucial when considering any form of substance use.

The most dangerous side effects of mephedrone addiction

Mephedrone may provide a quick high, but the consequences can be severe and long-lasting, impacting every facet of physical and mental health, personal well-being and prospects. Some of the most serious side effects of mephedrone addiction include:

  • Severe cardiovascular risk
  • Psychiatric symptoms
  • Neurological impairment
  • Physical health deterioration
  • Legal issues
  • Relationship problems
  • Problems at work and school

As you can see, mephedrone’s impacts can be profound and pervasive and recognising these risks is crucial for anyone involved in its use.

Treatment for mephedrone addiction

Mephedrone addiction can be an incredibly isolating experience, but it is important to know that help is available and recovery is achievable with the right support. Sanctuary Lodge offers a three-pronged approach to mephedrone addiction treatment to ensure the best chance for holistic healing:

  • Detox: A medically supervised detox is the first stage of all legal high addiction treatment, designed to break physical dependence and clear mephedrone from your system. This supervision is necessary to help you safely manage mephedrone’s intense physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.
  • Rehab therapy: Through a diverse programme of therapy, you will then explore the underlying causes of your mephedrone addiction, learn healthier coping mechanisms and begin to heal emotionally and mentally.
  • Relapse prevention: Post-rehab, you will develop a detailed relapse prevention plan, which includes strategies for dealing with cravings, avoiding triggers and accessing ongoing support to keep you on the path to recovery.

Get help for mephedrone addiction

Recovery from mephedrone addiction is a brave but life-transforming journey rewarding journey. While setting out on this road may be scary, Sanctuary Lodge is here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us today, and we can help you reclaim your life from mephedrone addiction and move forward with clarity and confidence.

FAQs

What kind of people get addicted to Mephedrone?
Mephedrone addiction can affect individuals from various backgrounds, but it is especially prevalent among young adults in the party or nightclub scene where mephedrone is often found. Additionally, people who may be dealing with social pressures, stress or underlying mental health issues like depression or anxiety might use mephedrone as a way to cope or escape from their daily struggles.
I think my loved one is addicted to Mephedrone. What should I do?
Seeing a loved one struggle with addiction can be deeply concerning, but your assistance can make a huge difference. Start by expressing your concerns in a caring and non-judgmental manner. Make sure they know you’re there to support them, not to criticise and encourage them to speak with a healthcare provider or addiction specialist. You can explore treatment options together and offer to accompany them to facilities like Sanctuary Lodge. Remember that you will need to be patient and understanding, as recovery is a challenging process that can involve setbacks.