Monkey Dust Addiction

Monkey dust, also known as MDPV (Methylenedioxypyrovalerone), is a synthetic cathinone. It is part of a family of drugs that are chemically similar to the stimulant found in the khat plant. These drugs are often marketed as “bath salts” or “plant food”.

Despite these seemingly innocuous names, monkey dust has gained extreme notoriety for its potent and unpredictable effects. Monkey dust acts on the brain’s neurotransmitters, primarily dopamine and norepinephrine. By inhibiting the reuptake of these chemicals, it causes a significant increase in their levels within the brain. This leads to heightened alertness, energy and euphoria but also to severe paranoia, hallucinations and aggressive behaviour.

There have been many sensationalist stories about monkey dust over the years, from reports of superhuman strength to now-debunked tabloid tales of monkey dust face eating and other extreme violence. While these are now widely accepted to be media exaggeration, in places where monkey dust use is prevalent, there is often a significant increase in crime and hospitalisations due to the drug.

As monkey dust is a relatively uncommon drug, identifying a monkey dust addiction in someone you know can be difficult. To help with identification, here are five common monkey dust addiction symptoms to be aware of:

1. Behavioural changes

Monkey dust addiction can cause erratic, unpredictable behaviour which is out of character for the person.

2. Social isolation

Relationships with family, friends and colleagues often suffer as the individual withdraws those closest to them so they can use monkey dust without judgement or interference.

3. Unexplained financial issues

If someone is addicted to monkey dust, they may begin to exhibit unexplained financial problems. This can include frequently borrowing money, selling personal belongings or even stealing to fund their addiction.

4. Professional issues

These can include frequent absences from work, missed deadlines, decreased productivity or poor job performance. Relationships with colleagues, customers and associates can become strained due to erratic behaviour and aggression.

5. Denial of the problem

Individuals addicted to monkey dust may downplay the severity of their situation, despite clear evidence to the contrary and resist any attempts by others to discuss their behaviour or seek help.

While still relatively rare, monkey dust is a significant public health concern in the UK. In the last few years, Stoke-on-Trent has been a hotspot for monkey dust abuse, which at times has overwhelmed local health services and law enforcement.

Violent behaviour, monkey dust overdose and drug-related crime have all been major issues, and these kinds of problems have seen monkey classified as a Class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This makes it illegal to possess, distribute or manufacture the substance. Despite these regulations, monkey dust remains widely available on the illicit drug market.

Monkey dust is habit-forming because of its effects on the brain’s neurotransmitters. While anyone who takes monkey dust has the potential to become addicted, high-achieving individuals might be particularly vulnerable to addiction due to several factors:

As well as the impacts on personal relationships and careers explained above, there are various side effects of monkey dust addiction, which can be devastating to health. These include:

• Cardiovascular issues: Including increased heart rate, hypertension and risk of heart attack.
• Neurological effects: Such as seizures, severe agitation and even scary and dangerous hallucinations.
• Mental health problems: Monkey dust addiction can cause or exacerbate anxiety, depression, psychosis and suicidal ideation.
• Physical health decline: Malnutrition, weight loss and general deterioration of physical health are all common with long-term monkey dust abuse.

Monkey dust addiction can be a devastating condition but it is also very much treatable. UKAT London Clinic is one of the world’s leading addiction recovery centres and we pride ourselves on offering the highest standards of confidentiality and expert care. Contact us today to find out more about our monkey dust addiction treatment programmes and begin the life-changing path to recovery.