Ecstasy-Like Mephadrone Banned in EU
Few in the United States have even heard of the drug, mephadrone. Characterized as a party drug akin to Ecstasy, it’s a huge hit in Europe -and also the suspected cause of a number of deaths. As a result, the drug has just been banned across the European Union in an effort to limit any further damage caused by the pills.
Why Was Mephadrone Banned?
Mephadrone has been illegal in 15 countries in Europe for some time due in part to the fact that it has been linked to 37 deaths in England and Ireland and directly responsible for at least two deaths in Europe. Another contributing factor to its ban: the European Monitoring Centre on Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) has determined that mephedrone can cause serious health issues including addiction. Several studies support this assertion. The drug has been cited as creating effects in the user that range from headache, sweating, teeth grinding, and nausea to serious problems like chest pain, seizures and irregular heartbeat.
Will the Mephadrone Ban Stop Mephadrone Addiction?
Unfortunately, despite the ban, authorities will likely have the same difficulties regulating and controlling the distribution of methadrone as they do with other illegal drugs, including heroin, cocaine, crystal meth and others. Though distributors will no longer be able to legally manufacture or market the drug, it may do no more than make it more difficult for users to buy. It’s certainly still available.
Viviane Reding is EU Justice Commissioner and says: “This drug is sold over the Internet, often behind innocent names like plant food or bath salts. Young people should not be fooled. These drugs are harmful.”
Legal Repercussions for Users of Mephadrone
There is one silver lining in the issue of mephadrone and its use in the European Union: users will not be prosecuted for seeking treatment to fight mephadrone addiction. Like other drugs that are also illegal and highly addictive, users in search of treatment can get what they need without fear of legal repercussions for their admission of use.
Unfortunately, many won’t seek treatment until they are already in legal trouble, either for the possession of sales of mephadrone or for the illegal choices they made while under the influence of the drug. In some cases, users will be offered treatment in lieu of a sentence -as long as they remain clean and sober and follow the program. Others will have to hope that treatment will be made available to them in prison.
Find Mephadrone Addiction Treatment
Mephadrone addiction is like addiction to any other illegal drug -treatment is the best way to successfully break free and create a new life without risk or worry of accident, death or imprisonment. Contact us today at Michael’s House to learn more about how we can help you fight your addiction to any drug, no matter where you live.
