NCJ Number
189477
Date Published
2000
Length
43 pages
Annotation
This video provides facts about club drugs and the short- and long-term consequences of using them.
Abstract
Club drugs refers to a variety of drugs used by young people at all-night dance parties, known as raves, and at dance clubs, bars, rock concerts, and private parties. The most popular club drugs are MDMA (Ecstasy), GHB, Rohypnol, ketamine, methamphetamine, and LSD. Contrary to what is portrayed in the media, in music, and on the Internet, club drugs are not harmless party drugs but can lead to serious health consequences, including death. Current research indicates that club drug use can result in possibly permanent brain damage, including memory and motor skill impairment. Also, known users are more likely to engage in other risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex, and become involved in criminal activity to support their expensive addiction. First-time offenders can receive a five-year prison term. These drugs are often created in illegal labs by amateurs and may be impure and contain high concentrations of toxic chemicals such as cleaning solvents and floor stripper. Mixing club drugs with alcohol or other drugs increases the risk of harmful effects. It is impossible to predict how a person will respond when a club drug is taken because little is known about its purity or concentration. Users may find that they are not able to maintain the stability they had before taking the drugs or the happiness or euphoria they felt while under the influence of the drugs. These post-use feelings can lead to other drug use to counter the feelings of depression and anxiety. Skills that students should learn upon viewing this video include analyzing how peer relationships affect decision-making; analyzing reasons given for using club drugs and how to counter these; identifying strategies to promote personal safety and reduce risk; differentiating between facts and misinformation about club drugs; and identifying helping resources for club drug-related problems.