Archives: Drugs
Naloxone
What is it?
Naloxone hydrochloride is a drug that can temporarily reverse opioid overdose. It works by blocking opioid drugs, such as heroin and Oxy, from attaching to the opioid receptors in the brain. It can come in nasal spray, pre-filled syringes and ampoules and can be purchased at a local pharmacy.
Naloxone can be injected into a muscle or delivered by intranasal spray (basically far up into the nose). It can be administered by anyone, not just medical professionals. With injecting, there is a risk of contracting blood-borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared and the risk of infection at the injecting site. It’s very handy to have around.
The effects of Naloxone are temporary and you should always seek emergency medical treatment for the averted overdose.
What are the effects?
Most side effects from naloxone are mild.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Nervousness
- Fast pulse
- Allergic reaction, with a swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat
- Wheezy breathing
- Chest tightness
- Intense rash
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Seizures
Overdose
People who have been revived with naloxone after overdosing on opioids may experience a strong urge to take more opioid drugs, especially if they are dependent. Taking opioid drugs after naloxone is very dangerous. Naloxone only stays in the body for a short period of time (30 – 90 minutes) whereas heroin and other opioid drugs stay in the body for much longer.
Opioids that have a sustained release, like Oxy, can last for over 12 hours, so naloxone will wear off long before the opioid has left the system. This means taking more opioids after taking naloxone could cause a second overdose.
If naloxone is used, then medical attention is needed immediately.
Mixing with other drugs
It’s best for us to avoid using any drugs when naloxone has been used. For more information about interactions head to Drugs.
HIV Medications
The interactions between naloxone and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that naloxone use directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know.
We did find that naloxone dosages may need to be increased with particular protease inhibitors to reduce an overdose.
The interactions between naloxone and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that naloxone use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and naloxone head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that naloxone directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
The interactions between naloxone and HRT are not well known.
For more information about Naloxone, head to the Australian Drug Foundation or Drugs.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Vapes
What is it?
Vapes are electronic devices used to heat a liquid chemical to produce a vapour for inhaling. This is commonly called vaping. Most often the liquid within the device will contain nicotine, but can also be used to inhale other drugs (such as THC, found in cannabis). Some liquids contain no drugs but are still made up of complex chemicals that often can go unapproved by health officials before being retailed. These liquids come in a wide variety of flavours and sweeteners.
Vapes can resemble a variety of objects including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or everyday items such as pens, USB memory sticks, and larger cylindrical or rectangular devices. Vapes and e-cigarettes are also known as pens, pods, Jul, e-hookah, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), and smartsmoker.
The liquids contained within a vape are first heated within their electronic devices into a vapour which is then inhaled.
What are the effects?
Depending on the liquid used and the chemical or drug contained, the effects of what is vaped can change.
- Mild stimulation
- Increase in heart rate
- Increased ability to concentrate
- Relaxation
- Eased cravings for tobacco
- Coughing
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Tingling or numbness in fingers and toes
- Reduced appetite, stomach cramps, vomiting
- Memory impairment
- Slower reflexes
- Bloodshot eyes
- An increased heart rate
- Mild anxiety and paranoia
Overdose
Too much nicotine from vapes can cause nicotine poisoning – which is just as bad as it sounds. Symptoms can vary, but include sweating, racing heart rate and increased blood pressure, shaking and vomiting – so, solid pass on that! Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency.
HIV Medications
The interactions between vaping and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that vaping directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know. If vaping weed or nicotine, best to check these sections for any interactions with HIV medications.
The interactions between vaping and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that vaping directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and vaping head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that vaping directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
The interactions between vaping and HRT are not well known. Due to the possible overlap with tobacco, check out the interactions section for related information.
For more information about vaping head to the Australian Drug Foundation
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Nitrous Oxide
What is it?
Nitrous oxide is a dissociative, typically used for sedation and pain relief. It is also a dissociative drug, which causes a dissociative sensation in the mind and body. Basically, it means we’re trippin’! It is also a food additive when used as a propellant for whipped cream. However, cartridges from household products like whipped cream are often used for self-administered nitrous oxide ingestion. When used in this form, the drug is commonly referred to as nangs, laughing gas, nitro, whippets, hippy crack, buzz bomb and balloons.
Taking nitrous oxide through gas cartridges (most often called nangs) is usually done by expelling the gas into a balloon first before inhaling it and exhaling it, and doing so repeatedly, but it can be inhaled directly.
It can also be inhaled directly and its effects are felt immediately for about a minute or so.
What are the effects?
The effects are felt almost immediately and last for about a minute. Inhaling directly from a canister can cause burns due to intense cold and damage the lungs so using a balloon can reduce the possibility of this happening.
- A rush of euphoria
- Numbness of the body
- Sedation
- Giddiness
- Uncontrolled laughter
- Uncoordinated movements
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Dizziness and/or light-headedness
- Sweating
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Memory loss
- Vitamin B12 depletion (long-term depletion causes brain and nerve damage)
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears
- Incontinence
- Numbness in the hands or feet
- Limb spasms
- Potential birth defects (if consumed during pregnancy)
- Weakened immune system
- Disruption to reproductive systems
- Depression
- Psychological dependence
- Psychosis
If a large amount of nitrous oxide is inhaled it can produce a loss of blood pressure, fainting, and heart attack.
Overdose
It’s possible to overdose from inhaling nitrous oxide. If we take too much we risk falling unconscious and/or suffocating from a lack of oxygen – known as hypoxia… so, there’s that to avoid! Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Irritation of the nose, eyes and throat
Wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing
Choking or tightness in the chest
Seizures
Bluish or greyish fingers, toes and lips
Rapid heart rate
Psychosis and hallucinations
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of nitrous oxide weed with other drugs – including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable. While there are no highly dangerous interactions between nitrous oxide and other drugs, there is a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of, and they can be found at TripSit. Find out more about mixing nitrous with other drugs at the Australian Drug Foundation.
HIV Medications
The interactions between nitrous oxide and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that nitrous oxide use directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know.
We did find that prolonged use of nitrous oxide in combination with Zidovudine warrants attention for the possible side effects that may result. Patients are recommended to consult with an HIV specialist.
The interactions between nitrous oxide and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that nitrous oxide use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and nitrous oxide head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that nitrous oxide use directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
The interactions between Nitrous Oxide and HRT are not well known. Progesterone and Cyproterone Acetate can have sedative effects, so we may be particularly tired, fatigued or sleepy during or after taking Nitrous Oxide.
For more information about nitrous oxide head to the Australian Drug Foundation.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Methadone/BUP
What is it?
Methadone and BUP (buprenorphine) are prescription opioid drugs used primarily to wean someone off of heroin or other opioids. This process is known as pharmacotherapy and helps with withdrawal symptoms.
Methadone is usually swallowed as a liquid but can be injected or taken in tablet form. BUP can be taken as tablets, films that are dissolved under the tongue or long-acting injections. With injecting, there is a risk of contracting blood-borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared and the risk of infection at the injecting site.
What are the effects?
The effects of methadone and BUP last much longer than the effects of heroin or other opioids. A single dose lasts about 24 hours, whereas a dose of heroin may only last a couple of hours.
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Increased sweating
- Tiredness or drowsiness (especially after a dose)
- Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Skin rashes, itching or hives
- Tooth decay
- Menstruation changes
- A lowered sex drive
- Weight gain
- Sweating
- Difficulty urinating
- Constipation
- Aching muscles and joints
- Rashes and itching
- Lethargy, mental clouding and confusion
- Runny nose
- Yawning
- High temperature but feeling cold and sweating with goose bumps
- Irritability and aggression
- Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal cramps and diarrhoea
- Tremors, muscle spasms and jerking
- Back and joint aches
- Cravings for the drug they were dependent on
Overdose
If the methadone dose is too high, it’s possible to overdose. Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Low and shallow breathing
Slack muscles
Occasional seizures
Drowsiness or unconsciousness
Cold, clammy skin and bluish/greyish colour
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of mixing methadone or BUP with other drugs – including over the counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous. Do not mix methadone or BUP with the following medications as it increases the risk of overdose, and even death:
- Ketamine
- Cocaine
- Alcohol
- GHB
- Benzos
There are a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of when mixing methadone and BUP with other drugs, and they can be found at TripSit.
HIV Medications
The interactions between methadone/BUP and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that methadone/BUP use directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know.
There is a range of antiretroviral medications, from different categories, that should not be mixed with methadone and/or BUP. Some interactions can cause issues with toxicity in the central nervous system, affect cardiac function, create abnormal rhythm, slow breathing and significant shifts in mental health. The interactions can also lead to increasing or decreasing the effects, and side effects, of methadone and/or BUP.
It’s best to chat with an HIV specialist before taking any form of methadone or BUP.
The interactions between methadone/BUP and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that methadone/BUP use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and methadone/BUP head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that methadone use directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
Methadone is an opioid and Oestradiol can affect our opioid receptors, and therefore how the body processes it, so it’s best to chat with a healthcare professional about whether our dosage needs to be adjusted.
Spironolactone and opioids can potentially lead to a build-up of toxicity and affect our kidneys.
Progesterone and Cyproterone Acetate can have sedative effects and cause tiredness and fatigue, so taking these along with other depressants may lead to feeling more exhausted during or after using opioids.
Both testosterone and opioids can cause water retention, which means we may experience constipation and bloating when taking both.
We don’t yet know enough about how opioid-induced androgen deficiency (OPIAD) may impact bodies that are taking testosterone, including whether it may impact our absorption or processing of our HRT.
For more information about methadone/BUP head to the Australian Drug Foundation or TripSit.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Oxycodone
What is it?
Oxycodone hydrochloride (aka Oxy) is a medical opioid prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. It’s a depressant, which means that it slows down the messages between the brain and the body – basically we are a few steps behind the beat! Oxycodone can be found as capsules, tablets, liquid and suppositories, and it also comes in a variety of strengths and is sometimes known as O and hillbilly heroin.
Oxycodone is usually swallowed but is sometimes injected or used as a suppository. With injecting, there is risk of contracting blood borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared. There is the risk of infection at the injecting site. Changes have now made the tablets resistant to crushing, and it becomes a thick gel when added to water.
What are the effects?
- Pain relief
- Dizziness or faintness
- Tiredness
- Confusion and difficulty concentrating
- Euphoria or negative mood
- Restlessness
- Stiff muscles
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Stomach-ache and nausea
- Difficulty urinating
- Slow pulse
- Excess sweating, flushing and itching
- Mild allergic rash or hives which requires immediate medical attention
- Dental problems
- Mood swing
- Reduced sex drive and decreased level of testosterone and menstrual problems
Overdose
If we take a large amount of Oxy or have a strong batch, it’s possible to overdose. Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Chest pain or discomfort
Small pupils
Decreased awareness or responsiveness
Extreme drowsiness and loss of consciousness
No muscle tone or movement
Slow or irregular heartbeat
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of mixing Oxy with other drugs – including over the counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous. Do not mix Oxy with the following medications as it increases the risk of overdose, and even death:
- Ketamine
- Cocaine
- Alcohol
- GHB
- Benzos
There are a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of when mixing Oxy and other drugs, and they can be found at TripSit.
Naloxone is an over the counter drug used to temporarily reverse an overdose on opioids. It can be purchased at local pharmacies and anyone can administer it. It’s handy to have around, just in case! It can be used as a nose spray or injected – and no, it’s not like Pulp Fiction! Even after naloxone has been used, medical attention should be sought immediately.
HIV Medications
The interactions between Oxy and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that Oxy use directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know.
We did find that protease inhibitors and some other medications, including Efavirenz, Etravirine, Nevirapine and Cobicistat can have fatal consequences when mixed with Oxy. Chat with an HIV specialist before taking Oxy.
The interactions between Oxy and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that Oxy use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and Oxy head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that Oxy use directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
Oxy is an opioid and Oestradiol can affect our opioid receptors, and therefore how the body processes it, so it’s best to chat with a healthcare professional about whether our dosage needs to be adjusted.
Spironolactone and opioids can potentially lead to a build-up of toxicity and affect our kidneys.
Progesterone and Cyproterone Acetate can have sedative effects and cause tiredness and fatigue, so taking these along with other depressants may lead to feeling more exhausted during or after using opioids.
Both testosterone and opioids can cause water retention, which means we may experience constipation and bloating when taking both.
We don’t yet know enough about how opioid-induced androgen deficiency (OPIAD) may impact bodies that are taking testosterone, including whether it may impact our absorption or processing of our HRT.
For more information about Oxy head to the Australian Drug Foundation or TripSit.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Fentanyl
What is it?
Fentanyl is an opioid drug that is medically prescribed for chronic pain conditions. It’s a depressant, which means that it slows down the messages between the brain and the body – basically, we are a few steps behind the beat! Fentanyl can be extremely dangerous as it is about 80 to 100 times stronger than morphine. It can come in many forms including patches, lozenges or lollipops, and as a liquid.
Fentanyl can be dissolved in the mouth and swallowed, or absorbed through the skin via patches, or through intravenous injection. With injecting, there is a risk of contracting blood-borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared and the risk of infection at the injecting site.
What are the effects?
- Euphoria
- Pain relief
- Nausea, vomiting
- Constipation and/or diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
- Wind, indigestion, cramps
- Drowsiness, confusion
- Weakness or fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Incoherent or slurred speech
- Impaired balance
- A slow pulse and lowered blood pressure
- A rash, inflammation, or swelling at the patch site
- Mood instability
- Reduced libido
- Constipation
- Menstrual problems
- Respiratory impairment
Overdose
If we take a large amount of fentanyl or have a strong batch, it’s possible to overdose. Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Chest pain
Slowed breathing
Coma
Greyish lips and complexion (in darker skin people)
Seizure
Passing out
Bluish lips and complexion (in lighter skin people)
Naloxone is an over the counter drug used to temporarily reverse an overdose on opioids. It can be purchased at local pharmacies and anyone can administer it. It’s handy to have around, just in case! It can be used as a nose spray or injected – and no, it’s not like Pulp Fiction! Even after naloxone has been used, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of mixing fentanyl with other drugs – including over the counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous. Do not mix fentanyl with the following medications as it increases the risk of overdose, and even death:
- Ketamine
- Cocaine
- Alcohol
- GHB
- Benzos
There are a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of when mixing fentanyl and other drugs, and they can be found at TripSit.
HIV Medications
The interactions between fentanyl and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that fentanyl use directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know.
We did find that protease inhibitors and some other medications, including Efavirenz, Etravirine, Nevirapine and Cobicistat can have fatal consequences when mixed with fentanyl. Some of these drugs can increase the effects of fentanyl, amplify any withdrawal symptoms, result in increased bleeding or risk potentially fatal respiratory depression.
The interactions between fentanyl and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that fentanyl use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and fentanyl head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that fentanyl use directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
Fentanyl is an opioid and Oestradiol can affect our opioid receptors, and therefore how the body processes it, so it’s best to chat with a healthcare professional about whether our dosage needs to be adjusted.
Spironolactone and opioids can potentially lead to a build-up of toxicity and affect our kidneys.
Progesterone and Cyproterone Acetate can have sedative effects and cause tiredness and fatigue, so taking these along with other depressants may lead to feeling more exhausted during or after using opioids.
Both testosterone and opioids can cause water retention, which means we may experience constipation and bloating when taking both.
We don’t yet know enough about how opioid-induced androgen deficiency (OPIAD) may impact bodies that are taking testosterone, including whether it may impact our absorption or processing of our HRT.
For more information about fentanyl head to the Australian Drug Foundation or TripSit.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
GHB/GBL
What is it?
GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) is a depressant drug that is popular in the dance and party scenes. As a depressant, it slows down the signals between the brain and the body – basically, we are a few steps behind the beat. It is typically a bitter or salty-tasting liquid that is close to odourless.
It is sometimes known as G, GBH (grievous bodily harm), fantasy, gamma G, blue nitro, and juice. A close alternative to GHB is GBL (gamma-butyrolactone), which when ingested converts to GHB.
GHB is most commonly swallowed but is sometimes injected or absorbed anally. With injecting, there is a risk of contracting blood-borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared and the risk of infection at the injecting site.
What are the effects?
The effects of GHB can vary greatly depending on the amount used and the particular batch. Even a small amount or a small increase in a dose can significantly increase the effects, and that is one of the most dangerous things about GHB – we can never know how strong it is. The effects can usually be felt 5 to 20 minutes after ingestion and the effects can last three to four hours.
- Feelings of euphoria
- Increased sex drive
- Lowered inhibitions
- Drowsiness
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
We have limited research on the long term effects but some include:
- Severe memory problems
- Heart disease
- Hallucinations
- Extreme anxiety
- Breathing problems
Overdose
If the dose is too high or the batch is to strong, it’s easy to overdose on G. Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Vomiting
Irregular or shallow breathing
Confusion, irritation and agitation
Hallucinations
Blackouts and memory loss
Unconsciousness that can last for three to four hours
There is a very small difference in the amount that the body can handle and the amount that results in overdose, and this risk is amplified if other drugs are in the mix.
If someone overdoses on G, they first may ‘drop’ which appears as unconsciousness. If someone drops on G, they need medical attention so call 000 immediately. If they come to, there is the possibility that they will drop again – so medical attention is the best thing for them – but don’t leave the person alone.
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of mixing GHB with other drugs – including over the counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous. Do not mix G with the following medications as it increases the risk of overdose, and even death:
- Ketamine
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Benzos
There are a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of when mixing G and other drugs, and they can be found at TripSit.
HIV Medications
The interactions between G and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that G use directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know.
We did find that the interactions between protease inhibitors and GHB can be toxic and life-threatening, as were the interactions between GHB and Delavirdine and Efavirenz. Best to chat with an HIV specialist about the interactions between G and HIV medications.
The interactions between G and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that G use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and G head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that GHB use directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
The interactions between GHB and HRT are not well known. Progesterone and Cyproterone Acetate can have sedative effects, so we may be particularly tired, fatigued or sleepy during or after taking GHB.
For more information about amphetamines head to the Australian Drug Foundation or TripSit.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Amphetamines
What are they?
Amphetamines are a class of stimulant drugs which means that they speed up the messages between the brain and the body. There are legal and illegal usages of amphetamines. The legal ones are typically used to treat ADHD among other conditions. Illegal amphetamines are typically used to boost energy and can come in pill, powder, crystal and capsule form.
The illegal forms of amphetamines, such as speed or ice (aka uppers, up, goeys, whiz, and rack), are often mixed with other drugs that range in size and colour, from pink to white to brown and have a strong smell and a bitter taste.
Amphetamines can be snorted, smoked, eaten, or injected. With injecting, there is risk of contracting blood borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared. There is the risk of infection at the injecting site.
What are the effects?
If amphetamines are injected or smoked, their effects are more likely to be felt immediately. If eaten or snorted, they may take up to 30 minutes to take effect.
- Happiness and confidence
- Talking more and feeling energetic
- Large pupils and dry mouth
- Fast heartbeat and breathing
- Teeth grinding
- Reduced appetite
- Increased sex drive
- Reduced appetite and extreme weight loss
- Restless sleeps
- Dry mouth
- Dental problems
- Regular colds and flu
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Depression
- Increased risk of stroke
Psychosis is known to be induced in those using amphetamines for an extended period of time (think days long binges) and can be identified by paranoia, hallucinations and violent and aggressive behaviours. These symptoms usually stop once the use of amphetamines have left the body.
Overdose
If we take a large amount or a strong batch of amphetamines, it’s possible to overdose. Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Racing heartbeat and chest pain
Fits
Passing out or breathing difficulties
Chills or fever
Not being able to urinate
Arching of the back
Convulsions
Stroke
Heart attack
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of mixing amphetamines with other drugs – including over the counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous. Do not mix amphetamines with the following medications as it increases the risk of overdose, and even death:
- Anti-depressant medications (specifically MAOIs)
There are a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of when mixing amphetamines and other drugs, and they can be found at the Australian Drug Foundation.
HIV Medications
The interactions between amphetamines and antiretroviral medications are not well known. But we did find that the use of amphetamines may impact the efficacy of antiretroviral medications, and in combination with HIV medications, amphetamines may aggravate HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.
We did find that there was one fatality with someone using amphetamines and taking antiretroviral medications, which included a combination of Saquinavir, Stavudine and Ritonavir.
Furthermore, we also found that protease inhibitors can increase concentrations of amphetamines in the body, which amplifies its effects, both positive and negative, so best to be aware of amphetamine toxicity.
Lastly, Cobicistat may impact the metabolism of amphetamines and increase or decrease its effects, both positive and negative.
The interactions between amphetamines and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that amphetamine use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and amphetamines head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
Feminising hormones and anti-androgens can alter the experience of stimulants generally, including amphetamines. It can result in experiencing amplified effects including excess sweating, rapid heart rate and dehydration, and this is more likely with low testosterone levels.
Fluctuations in Oestrogen and Progesterone can change how we respond to stimulants (although studies have been just with cisgender women), and it can affect our state of mind when taking amphetamines.
Oestradiol can contribute to deep vein thrombosis, and amphetamine use has been shown to increase thrombic risk, so best to chat with a healthcare professional to help manage and mitigate the risk.
Progesterone can cause us to feel tired, drowsy or sleepy a couple of hours after taking it, so it can help to schedule when to take it and when to take amphetamines.
As Spironolactone acts as a diuretic, we may need to be extra mindful of keeping our hydration levels up while using amphetamines so that we don’t experience dehydration.
Testosterone can increase irritability, and restlessness and impact our emotions, so we may find changes in our response when taking amphetamines, such as increased sweating and heart rate, and our experiences of irritability and mood swings.
Both Testosterone and amphetamine use can contribute to a condition known as polycythaemia (a high concentration of red blood cells). This may feel like fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Chat with a doctor to keep an eye on any blood tests.
For more information about amphetamines head to the Australian Drug Foundation or TripSit.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Meth
What is it?
Crystal methamphetamine (aka meth) is a stimulant drug that speeds up messages between the brain and the body – basically, it gets us to stepping! It’s a particular type of methamphetamine, which is generally stronger, more addictive and has more harmful side effects than other amphetamines (i.e., speed).
It is usually found as a strong-smelling white or brownish crystal-like powder or as little crystals that look like ice and is also known as crystal meth, ice, shabu, crystal, glass, Tina, and shard. Many people use these words interchangeably, so for simplicity purposes, we will just use the term meth.
Meth is most often smoked or injected. With injecting, there is a risk of contracting blood-borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared and the risk of infection at the injecting site. The effects are felt straight away when smoked and about 15-30 seconds after injection. Occasionally it is swallowed or snorted, with the effects being felt within 20 minutes and 5 minutes respectively. The effects can last up to 12 hours.
What are the effects?
High doses of meth or frequent use may result in an episode of ‘ice psychosis’ characterised by bizarre and irrational behaviour, paranoia and hallucinations, or aggressive and violent behaviour. These episodes can last a few days depending on the amount consumed.
- Feelings of pleasure and confidence
- Increased alertness and energy
- Repeating simple things like itching and scratching
- Enlarged pupils and dry mouth
- Teeth grinding and excessive sweating
- Fast heart rate and breathing
- Reduced appetite
- Increased sex drive
- Extreme weight loss due to reduced appetite
- Restless sleep
- Dry mouth and dental problems
- Regular colds or flu
- Trouble concentrating
- Breathlessness
- Muscle stiffness
- Anxiety, paranoia and violence
- Depression
- Heart and kidney problems
- Increased risk of stroke
Overdose
If we take a large amount of meth or have a strong batch, it’s possible to overdose. Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Racing heartbeat and chest pain
Breathing problems
Fits and uncontrolled jerking
Extreme agitation, confusion, clumsiness
Sudden, severe headaches
Unconsciousness
Stroke or heart attack
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of mixing meth with other drugs – including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous. Do not mix methamphetamine with the following medications as it increases the risk of overdose, and even death:
- Anti-depressant medications (specifically MAOIs)
There are a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of when mixing meth and other drugs, and they can be found at the Australian Drug Foundation.
HIV Medications
The interactions between meth and antiretroviral medications are not well known. But we did find that the use of meth may impact the efficacy of antiretroviral medications, and in combination with HIV medications, meth may aggravate HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.
We did find that there was one fatality with someone using meth and taking antiretroviral medications, which included a combination of Saquinavir, Stavudine and Ritonavir.
Furthermore, we also found that protease inhibitors can increase concentrations of meth in the body, which amplifies its effects, both positive and negative, so best to be aware of meth toxicity.
Lastly, Cobicistat may impact the metabolism of meth and increase or decrease its effects, both positive and negative.
The interactions between meth and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that meth use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and meth head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that meth use directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
Feminising hormones and anti-androgens can alter the experience of stimulants generally, including meth. It can result in experiencing amplified effects including excess sweating, rapid heart rate and dehydration, and this is more likely with low testosterone levels.
Fluctuations in Oestrogen and Progesterone can change how we respond to stimulants (although studies have been just with cisgender women), and it can affect our state of mind when taking meth.
Oestradiol can contribute to deep vein thrombosis, and meth use has been shown to increase thrombic risk, so best to chat with a healthcare professional to help manage and mitigate the risk.
Progesterone can cause us to feel tired, drowsy or sleepy a couple of hours after taking it, so it can help to schedule when to take it and when to take meth.
As Spironolactone acts as a diuretic, we may need to be extra mindful of keeping our hydration levels up while using meth so that we don’t experience dehydration.
Testosterone can increase irritability, and restlessness and impact our emotions, so we may find changes in our response when taking meth, such as increased sweating and heart rate, and our experiences of irritability and mood swings.
Both Testosterone and meth use can contribute to a condition known as polycythaemia (a high concentration of red blood cells). This may feel like fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Chat with a doctor to keep an eye on any blood tests.
For more information about meth head to the Australian Drug Foundation or TripSit.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.
ALL OF THE DRUGS
Ketamine
What is it?
Ketamine is an anaesthetic drug used typically for pain relief. It is also a dissociative drug, which causes visual and auditory distortions. Basically, it means we’re trippin! When purchased illegally, it is found as a whitish powder and can be made into pills or dissolved in a liquid. It is also known as horse tranquiliser, tranks, Special K, super K, K, ket, and KitKat.
Ketamine can be swallowed, snorted or injected. With injecting, there is risk of contracting blood borne viruses, such as hepatitis B & C and HIV if needles are shared. There is a risk of infection at the injecting site.
What are the effects?
If injected, the effects are felt immediately afterwards. If snorted, about 5-15 minutes, and when swallowed, about 30 minutes. The effects usually last about an hour.
- Feeling happy and relaxed
- Feeling detached from your body (‘falling into a k-hole’)
- Visual and auditory hallucinations
- Confusion and clumsiness
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Slurred speech and blurred vision
- Anxiety, panic and violence
- Vomiting
- Lowered sensitivity to pain
- Flashbacks
- Poor sense of smell (from snorting)
- Mood and personality changes, depression
- Poor memory, thinking and concentration
- Abnormal liver or kidney function and abdominal pain
Some people may experience ketamine bladder syndrome after prolonged or extended use. This is a painful condition needing ongoing treatment. Incontinence is the main symptom and this can cause ulceration in the bladder – and it’s probably as painful as it sounds. Anyone suffering from ketamine bladder syndrome needs to stop using ketamine and see a health professional.
Overdose
If we take a large amount or a strong batch of ketamine, it’s possible to overdose. Knowing the signs of overdose helps keeps us and others safe, and when we might need to call an ambulance. Watch out for these symptoms and call 000 in an emergency:
Inability to move, rigid muscles
High blood pressure or fast heartbeat
Convulsions
Unconsciousness and near death experience
Mixing with other drugs
The effects of mixing ketamine with other drugs – including over the counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous. Do not mix ketamine with the following medications because it may increase the risk of overdose, and even death:
- Alcohol
- GHB
- Opioids
There are a range of unsafe interactions to be cautious of when mixing ketamine and other drugs, and they can be found at TripSit.
HIV Medications
The interactions between ketamine and antiretroviral medications are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that ketamine use directly reduces the efficacy of antiretroviral medications. If some new research comes to light, then we’ll update this section and let you know.
We did find that a range of drugs could increase or decrease the effects, and level of effects from ketamine use. Additionally, some research suggests that combining ketamine with Ritonavir, Lopinavir or Cobacistat can lead to epigastric pain and hepatobiliary disorder, basically affecting the pancreas and surrounding areas.
The interactions between ketamine and PrEP and PEP are not well known. There’s currently no evidence to suggest that ketamine use directly interacts with these medications or reduces their efficacy. We’ll keep looking and update you if any new research comes to light.
To learn about the interactions between specific HIV medications and ketamine head to Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker.
Hormones
There’s currently no evidence to suggest that ketamine use directly reduces the efficacy of HRT. We’ll keep looking and update this information if something new comes to light.
While the interaction between Ketamine and HRT is not extensively researched, some research suggests that Oestradiol and Progesterone use may impact how we experience ketamine. This may involve changes to our psychological state, and potentially increased feelings of dissociation or detachment. Progesterone and Cyproterone Acetate can have sedative effects, so we may be particularly tired, fatigued or sleepy during or after taking ketamine.
For more information about ketamine head to the Australian Drug Foundation or TripSit.
DISCLAIMER:
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way.