Krokodil has burst onto the scene as one of the most terrifying drugs in the modern world. Highly potent, remarkably addictive, and with devastating effects on one’s mind and body, many media outlets have deemed krokodil as the most dangerous drug in the world. By learning more about krokodil addiction and krokodil withdrawal, we hope to arm you with the tools necessary to combat this destructive drug. By learning what makes krokodil so uniquely dangerous, one may just be able to save a life in the process.
What is Krokodil?
Krokodil or “crocodile” is a common street name for the drug desomorphine. Desomorphine is a semi-synthetic opioid. Originally developed to make a drug that could compete with morphine, krokodil is generally not used by the modern medical community. After much testing and many trials in Russia and Europe, desomorphine was discontinued in 1981. Around 2010, krokodil cases began springing up all over Russia when clandestine organizations produced the drug as a cheap alternative to morphine and heroin.
Causing powerful and fast-acting sedation and analgesia (pain relief) krokodil has quickly gained a reputation for being highly addictive. The name krokodil actually comes from the Russian word for crocodile. It is aptly named because of the scale-like sores and terrifying necrosis that occurs near the injection site. In recent years, cases of krokodil addiction have become more and more common across the United States.
Effects of Krokodil Use
The effects of krokodil use are straight out of a horror film. Named largely for the crocodile-like look that the skin takes on after using krokodil, one can expect much more dramatic effects on the body than many other commonly abused substances. Over time, krokodil damages blood vessels and causes the skin to become green and scaly. This occurs due to necrosis. Necrosis is a medical condition in which blood flow is restricted to certain parts of the body, effectively killing the living tissue in that area. Therefore, long-term krokodil use often leads to green, black, and scaly skin. Furthermore, if untreated, krokodil users often might have entire limbs amputated. Prolonged use can also directly lead to death, as the drug slowly poisons the body.
How Addictive is Krokodil?
In a word, krokodil is remarkably addictive. Thought to be up to 10 times more potent than traditional morphine, krokodil can easily addict a person after just one use. Being a semi-synthetic opioid, krokodil’s chemical makeup places it in a deadly position that often leads to tragedy for the user. As a semi-synthetic opioid, krokodil works by acting on the opioid receptors in the brain. Known for being one of the most potent drugs on Earth, opium is used in many highly addictive pharmaceuticals such as Oxycodone, morphine, fentanyl, methadone, and many others. As a street drug, opium is found in large quantities in drugs like heroin. All in all, krokodil is easily one of the most highly addictive and highly dangerous drugs on the planet.
Signs of Krokodil Addiction
Fortunately, many signs of krokodil addiction can be easy to spot if you know what to look for. For instance, open sores, scaly-looking skin, blackened or dead-looking skin, and track marks can all be tell-tale signs of krokodil addiction. Along with these signs, other tells might include some of the following:
- Nodding (a phrase used to describe opioid-related narcolepsy)
- Drug-seeking behavior
- Mood irregularities
- Personality changes
- Uncommon drowsiness
- Anxiety
What are the Symptoms of Krokodil Withdrawal?
The intensity and duration of krokodil withdrawal can vary from person to person. These things depend on factors such as length of use, the volume of use, and other personal individual factors. Generally, krokodil withdrawal symptoms include the following:
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Dilated pupils
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Aches
- Anxiety
- Depression
How to Safely Detox From Krokodil
As scary as krokodil addiction may be, there is hope. Every year, thousands of Americans find the help they need in order to reclaim their independence from krokodil addiction. By finding the appropriate support system, you can give yourself or your loved one the best chance of a successful and long-lasting recovery. Solo krokodil withdrawal can often lead to dangerous situations, as well as a much higher risk of relapse. Therefore, by finding the proper support system of medical professionals, one can effectively give themselves a new lease on life and the chance to begin anew.
Detox From Krokodil Addiction in Nashville, TN
Here at Detox Nashville, we are waiting with open arms to help you every step of the way during your personal recovery journey. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, we provide a luxury detox and alcohol facility with all the amenities to give you a comfortable environment conducive to healing. Our highly trained and compassionate staff are ready to make your dream of a drug- and alcohol-free life into a reality. There has never been a better time to give yourself the opportunity to start fresh. Contact us today, and take the first steps in your individual recovery journey.
