Krokodil, also known as desomorphine, is a synthetic (fake) opioid that gained popularity as a cheap substitute for heroin in some parts of Russia. It is called "krokodil" due to the scaly, greenish-black appearance of the skin around injection sites that looks like the skin of a crocodile.
Other street names for Krokodil are:
- Poor man’s heroin
- Russian magic
- Krok
- Croc
- Crocodile drug
- Gator drug
Krokodil became a significant public health concern in Europe and Russia due to its highly destructive effects on the body, including tissue damage, skin ulcerations, and serious infections. The use of Krokodil is associated with numerous health risks and a high potential for addiction. It is crucial to note that the production and use of Krokodil are illegal and pose serious dangers to the individuals involved. Also, Krokodil is a Schedule I drug, which means it has no medical benefits and a high potential for abuse.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Krokodil abuse, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery.
How Common is Krokodil Drug Abuse in the U.S.?
Krokidil drug use in the U.S. is currently non- existent. Various rumors spread that Krokodil had reached America, but the American Journal of Medicine reports that there have been no laboratory findings of Krokodil drug abuse in the U.S. The main reason that Krokodile use is not common in the U.S. is most likely because codeine is a controlled substance and therefore hard to get.
However, krokodil use is spreading fast in Russia, and about 100,000 people used it in 2011. People in Russia started using it around 2003, and now it's also spreading to nearby countries like Ukraine, Georgia, and Kazakhstan. Even though it's more common in Russia, Germany and Norway have also seen cases of people using Krokodil.
How Is Krokodil Made and What Is it Made out of?
Desomorphine (krokodil) is made from codeine and is usually produced using a crude and dangerous homemade production process, often involving the use of various toxic and corrosive chemicals like household cleaners, hydrochloric acid, and gasoline with codeine. The resulting substance is impure and can cause severe health problems.
Codeine, the main ingredient, is usually extracted from over-the-counter medications or obtained illegally. This process typically takes place in makeshift labs, like in someone’s kitchen, contributing to the drug's impurity and more health risks for users. The resulting substance, desomorphine, is very addictive and well-known for its damaging effects on the body, earning it the nickname "flesh-eating drug."
The toxic components used in Krokodil production, such as red phosphorus, iodine, and hydrochloric acid, contribute to the drug's destructive nature. Prolonged use of Krokodil leads to severe health consequences, including tissue damage, gangrene, and, in extreme cases, limb amputation. The production and use of Krokodil highlight the devastating consequences of synthetic drug abuse, emphasizing the critical need for public awareness and intervention to address the health risks associated with its production and consumption.
What Does a Krokodil Addiction Look Like?
One of the most distinctive features of krokodil use is the severe skin damage it causes. The drug can lead to the development of dark, scaly, and unhealthy skin that looks like crocodile skin. This is where the drug gets its street name. Krokodil use often results in the formation of painful ulcers and abscesses at the injection site. Due to the impurities in the drug, users may experience infections and tissue damage.
Users may experience nausea and vomiting shortly after using the drug. Krokodil can cause dizziness, confusion, and impaired cognitive function.
Long-term use of krokodil can cause severe organ damage to the:
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Cardiovascular system
It’s important to keep in mind that injection drug use, especially with impure substances like krokodil, increases the risk of infections, including bloodborne infections like AIDS and hepatitis.
Consequences of Krokodil Addiction
Chronic use of opioids, like krokodil, can also lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Like other opioids, krokodil is highly addictive, and users may experience physical and psychological dependence. Individuals addicted to krokodil may become socially isolated as their lives revolve around obtaining and using the drug. The production and purchase of krokodil ingredients can be expensive, leading to money problems for users.
If this description of Krokodil drug abuse reminds you of yourself or a loved one, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery.
What Are Some Krokodil Side Effects?
Tissue Damage: Krokodil is well-known for causing serious tissue damage at the injection site. Users often develop visible and painful skin ulcers, which can lead to the appearance of scaly, greenish-black skin, resembling a crocodile's skin.
Infections: The use of Krokodil is linked to a high risk of serious infections. Contaminants from the homemade production process, as well as unclean injection practices, can introduce bacteria and other pathogens into the body, leading to infections that can be difficult to treat.
Gangrene: The Krokodil drug, with its impurities and blood vessel constricting properties not only narrows blood vessels but also poses a risk of causing vessel tightening, potentially leading to gangrene in users. Gangrene is the death of body tissue due to a lack of blood supply. In severe cases, gangrene can lead to amputation (removal of the affected limb.)
Bone and Muscle Damage: Krokodil use can result in damage to the bones and muscles near the injection site. This can lead to long-term disability.
Organ Damage: The toxic chemicals used in creating Krokodil can harm internal organs, including the liver and kidneys, potentially causing the organs to stop working.
Addiction: Like other opioids, gator drug is highly addictive. Users may develop a physical and psychological dependence on the drug, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior.
What Are Some Krokodil Withdrawal Symptoms?
Common Krokodil withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Skin infections
- Soft tissue infections
- Skin ulcerations
- Gangrene
- Necrosis (death of living tissue)
- Inflamed veins (thrombophlebitis)
- Muscle and Joint Pain
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Sweating
- Tremors
What Are Treatment Options for Krokodil Addiction?
Krokodil addiction poses serious health risks due to the toxic nature of the drug. If someone is struggling with Krokodil addiction, it is crucial for them to seek professional help immediately. The treatment for Krokodil addiction typically involves a combination of medical, psychological, and social interventions. Here are some common elements of treatment for Krokodil addiction:
Medical Detoxification: Since Krokodil is a powerful opioid, individuals addicted to it may need medical detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Medical supervision is critical during this phase to address potential complications and ensure the individual's safety.
Medical Monitoring and Management: Given the severity of Krokodil drug effects, individuals may require ongoing medical monitoring and management. This may include treatment for infections, wound care, and addressing any other health complications that are caused by Krokodil use.
Psychological Counseling and Therapy: Behavioral therapy and counseling play a crucial role in treating substance use disorders, including Krokodil addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management are commonly used to address the psychological aspects of addiction and help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Support Groups: Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or other addiction recovery groups, can provide individuals with a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences and learning from others who have faced similar challenges can be an essential part of the recovery process.
Inpatient or Residential Treatment: In some cases, individuals with severe Krokodil addiction may benefit from inpatient or residential treatment programs. These programs provide a structured environment with round-the-clock medical and therapeutic support.
Outpatient Treatment: Outpatient treatment allows individuals to receive therapy and support while living at home. This option may be suitable for those with less severe addiction or for individuals who have completed inpatient treatment and are transitioning back into daily life.
Holistic Approaches: Some treatment programs incorporate holistic approaches, including mindfulness techniques, yoga, and art therapy, to address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of addiction.
Aftercare Planning: Planning for aftercare is an important aspect of the recovery process. This may involve ongoing therapy, participation in support groups, and developing strategies to maintain sobriety in the long term.
It's important for individuals struggling with Krokodil addiction to reach out to healthcare professionals or addiction specialists for a full assessment and guidance on the most appropriate treatment options for their specific situation. Early intervention and a multidimensional approach to treatment are the main parts of a successful recovery from substance use disorders.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one are suffering from Krokodil addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery. We employ experts in the field of addiction, and we can help you turn your life around. Our staff are highly trained and treat every patient with utmost professionalism and care. We use a combination of evidence-based therapies and personalized treatment plans to give you the best chance at recovery.
Reach out to us today to experience a world of premier support, care and guidance every step of the way. You don’t have to battle your addiction alone. Avenues Recovery will be there for you as you traverse your journey towards a brighter, healthier and drug-free future.