What are Quaaludes?
Quaaludes are the brand name for the sedative-hypnotic drug Methaqualone, which function in the body as a general central nervous system depressant. They were first introduced in the United States by pharmaceutical companies in the 1960’s, marketed as a non-addictive sleeping pill, but can lead to Quaaludes addiction.
Because of the addictive nature of the drug, Quaaludes became increasingly popular for recreational uses in the late 1960s and early 1970s. They quickly became a heavily abused drug, causing adverse symptoms in the men and women who developed an addiction to it, such as severe depression and anxiety.
The drug became banned in many countries and was withdrawn from many markets in the early 1980s. Although illegal, Quaaludes continue to be sold on the black market. This drug comes in the form of a tablet or capsule. They are tasteless, odorless, and are relatively inexpensive to obtain.
When used recreationally, the medication is crushed and mixed with marijuana and smoked or liquefied and injected. Street names for Quaaludes are “Lemmons,” “714s”, “Ludes,” “quacks,” “soapers,” “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”, and “super soaper”. The illegal use of Ludes can cause damaging effects to the abuser. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Quaaludes, it is important that you seek the professional help you deserve to get your life back on track.
Quaaludes Abuse Statistics
Because the federal government banned the production of Quaaludes in 1984, there are minimal recorded studies or statistics about its use.
Causes of Quaalude Addiction
Since the ban of this addictive drug in the early 1980s, it has been increasingly difficult to obtain, even on the black market. Many individuals who have access to Quaaludes typically live in areas where the drug is commonly produced or in countries where the drug has not yet been banned. It is usually mixed with low-grade marijuana, and this combination is one of the preferred hard drugs of lower-income individuals.
If a person has greater exposure to the drug because of environmental situations, peer pressure, or family members who have access to the drug, it is more likely that they might become addicted to Quaaludes. Initially marketed as a “non-addictive” sleeping pill, many individuals may have turned to the drug to escape physical or emotional pain. In these instances, the cause of the Quaaludes addiction is a result of a deeper underlying issue, and seeking professional treatment will help resolve the concerns connected to the addiction.
Signs and Symptoms of Quaaludes Addiction
If you or a loved one is unsure about the extent of a possible Quaaludes addiction, it may be helpful to evaluate any signs or symptoms you may be experiencing. The following are some signs and symptoms that may occur as a result of Quaaludes abuse:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- Loss of appetite
- Slurred speech
- Sexual dysfunction
- Memory Loss
- Hives
- Weakness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Motor dysfunction
- In cases of overdose, death
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these side effects as a result of a Quaaludes addiction, it is crucial that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Quaaludes Effects
Being addicted to Ludes can mean that hardships will develop beyond physical complications, such as severed relationships, lost job opportunities, or difficult financial situations. Continued abuse of this medication will lead to ongoing physical, psychological, emotional, and social damage if left untreated or unaddressed. Possible side effects from continued abuse include the following:
Physical Effects – Abuse can be detrimental to your body as you harm normal mechanisms, organs, and systems. Physical effects can include:
- Cardiovascular dysfunction
- Motor dysfunction
- Respiratory depression
- Photophobia – An excessive sensitivity to light
- Paresthesias – Numbness of the fingers and toes
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Slowed speech
Psychological Effects – The abuse can lead to damaging psychological effects:
- Delirium
- Insomnia
- Mood disorders
- Increased Anxiety
- Depression
Social Effects – An addiction can negatively interfere with your social life and activities in the following ways:
- Decreased social interactions
- Increased isolation and segregation from loved ones
- Withdrawal from social activities and events
If you are ready to treat an addiction to Quaaludes, it is important that you recognize the severity of the problem. This is the first step to overcoming an addiction. Men and women with Quaaludes addictions are more likely to overdose or inflict harm to their bodies, and procuring the help of a professional treatment team will promote lasting recovery.
Quaaludes Withdrawal
The long-term recreational misuse of Quaaludes has the potential for developing into an addiction. Withdrawals from Quaaludes can occur when a man or woman suddenly ceases using the drug after continued use. A user who is addicted to Quaaludes will be subjected to withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit. The severity of symptoms experienced from Quaaludes withdrawal can vary based on the dosage taken and length of time it has been abused. Quaaludes withdrawal effects can include the following:
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Muscle Spasms
- Confusion
- High Fevers
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Fatal Seizures
A Quaaludes treatment facility can be an important part of the detoxification process from Quaaludes. Since withdrawal symptoms can be quite severe, medical supervision during the withdrawal process is recommended. Treatment programs for a Quaaludes addiction will be able to help with withdrawal symptoms as well as in overcoming the vicious cycle of abuse.
Quaaludes Treatment and Help
Men and women who abuse Quaaludes may feel as though they can continue to live their lives with this addiction. The truth is that a Quaaludes addiction can result in physical and psychological destruction, and in extreme cases, a Quaaludes addiction can be fatal.
Fortunately, help is available to those who wish to overcome this addiction and freely live their lives. The first step towards overcoming an addiction to Quaaludes is to recognize the problem at hand. Having professional assistance is essential for overcoming the abusive cycle of a Quaalude addiction, and recognizing your need for help will open the possibility to recovery especially when you enlist the services of a quaaludes addiction treatment center.
While an addiction to Quaaludes can be overwhelming for you or your loved one, this battle does not have to be fought alone. Having the help of a professional treatment team or rehab center can allow for the best care and ultimately, give you the hope and resources you need to overcome this addiction.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on June 13, 2017
Published on AddictionHope.com, Directory of Substance Abuse Information