Scopolamine is a prescription medication used to treat nausea, vomiting, and motion sickness. While it can be highly effective when used as directed, scopolamine—sometimes referred to as “Devil’s Breath”—can pose serious risks when misused recreationally or taken in higher doses than prescribed. Misuse of this drug can lead to incapacitation, leaving many vulnerable to harm, and it increases the likelihood of dependence or addiction.
Though it has gained notoriety as a party drug, the side effects of scopolamine misuse are dangerous and far from harmless. If you or someone you care about may be struggling with scopolamine addiction, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Scopolamine abuse can result in life-threatening consequences, including the risk of fatal overdose. However, recovery is within reach. As a Promises Behavioral Health company, Promises Brazos Valley provides compassionate, evidence-based care to help people break free from addiction. Call 979.426.0086 or contact our team online to learn more about our options for prescription drug addiction treatment in College Station, TX. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here for you as you take the first step toward healing.
What to know about prescription drug abuse
Opioids, stimulants, and sedatives treat various medical conditions as prescription drugs. Prescription drug misuse is a significant concern in the United States, impacting the lives of millions each year. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), approximately 16 million people, or 6% of Americans, struggle with the misuse of prescription medications annually. For some, this challenge becomes more severe. Around 2 million Americans, or 12% of those who misuse prescription drugs, develop an addiction.
One of the main reasons for the rise in prescription drug abuse is the misconception that these medications are safe because they come from a doctor. However, when taken without proper medical supervision or in higher doses than prescribed, these drugs can lead to dependence or addiction.
What is scopolamine?
Scopolamine is a medication commonly used to manage motion sickness and postoperative nausea and vomiting. It can also help before surgery by reducing saliva, which lowers the risk of throat irritation during anesthesia. Doctors typically recommend scopolamine for those facing severe nausea or at risk of complications, providing targeted relief when it’s needed most. They place a transdermal patch behind the ear several hours before its effects are needed, and it provides continuous support for several days.1
What is Devil’s Breath?
Scopolamine’s powdered form, called Devil’s Breath, has gained attention for its misuse in recreational settings like parties, bars, or clubs due to its hallucinogenic properties. At high doses, Devil’s Breath is a potent central nervous system (CNS) depressant and can lead to prolonged unconsciousness, lasting 24 hours or more. Tragically, people have unknowingly been drugged through food or drinks, often to facilitate crimes such as theft. Recognizing the risks associated with this misuse is vital to ensuring safety and preventing harm.
Understanding the risks of Devil’s Breath addiction
Devil’s Breath, often used in social settings and parties, is known for its temporary calming and euphoric effects. While these effects may feel appealing, they are short-lived, typically lasting only a few hours. Unfortunately, the aftermath of using Devil’s Breath can bring discomfort, such as nausea and vomiting. Beyond these initial symptoms, this powerful drug poses significant risks to both your physical and mental health:
- It can cause hallucinations, drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision in larger doses.
- It may lead to aggressive or violent behavior and a loss of inhibitions.
- Memory loss is a common side effect, leaving individuals unable to recall troubling behaviors.
- It can cause unconsciousness, making individuals vulnerable to harm, including physical or sexual assault.
- In severe cases, Devil’s Breath can slow breathing to dangerous levels, potentially resulting in a fatal overdose.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of sexual assault, the National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 at (800) 656-4673.
Recovery from Devil’s Breath use is possible, whether it’s you or someone you care about who is struggling. Addiction to this hallucinogen can be overwhelming, but with support, it is possible to stop its use and protect yourself from serious risks.
Recognizing the signs of a scopolamine overdose
Taking too much Devil’s Breath can be extremely dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include:
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of consciousness
If you notice these signs, don’t hesitate to call 911 immediately. Acting quickly can make all the difference and may save a life. Remember, help is available, and no action is too small when it comes to someone’s safety.
How prescription drug abuse treatment can help
Prescription drug abuse is a serious problem that can have devastating effects on individuals and their families. Seeking help for prescription drug abuse is the first step towards recovery and a healthier, happier life. Treatment for prescription drug abuse typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support groups:
- Medication: Doctors may prescribe medications like buprenorphine or methadone to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These drugs bind to opioid receptors to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal.
- Therapy: Individual therapy with a trained professional can address issues that led to drug use. Approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI) help build coping skills and prevent relapse.
- Support groups: Joining groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery offers community and peer support, as well as a safe space to share experiences.
Aside from these traditional treatment methods, alternative approaches may also benefit some individuals in recovery. These include holistic treatments such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and art therapy. These practices focus on overall well-being and can aid in reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Find support for scopolamine addiction at Promises Brazos Valley in Texas
Scopolamine is a highly dangerous substance, often misunderstood due to its reputation as a party drug. Beyond its risks of contributing to criminal behavior, it can lead to serious substance use challenges. If you or someone you care about is struggling, know that help is available. At Promises Brazos Valley, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care to guide you toward recovery and long-term wellness.
Protect yourself from the harmful effects of scopolamine with the proper support and treatment. Contact our team online or call 979.426.0086 to learn more about how Promises Brazos Valley can help. Together, we’ll explore your treatment options and create a personalized plan to help you reclaim your life.
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