No, this is not about cats on drugs.
CAT is another name for a drug called methcathinone, also known as KAT, methedrone, kitty, or meow. The drug CAT is a new substance that’s become more and more popular among young adults. It’s commonly used in the rave and club scenes by partygoers looking to enhance their nightlife experiences. Because it was made illegal in the United States in the late 1940s, many people have never heard of methcathinone. Those who have heard of CAT may have simply mistaken it for the common household feline. To clear up the confusion, our addiction treatment center in Texas is sharing more information about CAT drug addiction.
What Is The CAT Drug?
Methcathinone is a highly addictive and illegal stimulant drug that’s similar to methamphetamine. It can be snorted, smoked, injected, or ingested orally. CAT is derived from the Catha edulis plant that’s native to Africa. It was first synthesized in the 1920s and used by the Soviet Union as an antidepressant, but never made it to the pharmacy shelves in the United States.Like other stimulants, CAT works by altering the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, producing feelings of euphoria, alertness, and pleasure. Methcathinone is often compared to other stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine because they produce similar symptoms.
CAT drug abuse is a growing problem. Because it’s an illicit and man-made substance, CAT can be illegally manufactured and distributed across the globe, just like meth. No one is immune to this drug, and those who are exposed to it are at risk of addiction. At Banyan Treatment Centers Texas, we offer a variety of addiction services to help people battling substance abuse disorders achieve sobriety.
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Common Street Names for Methcathinone
Illicit drugs are often referred to by a variety of slang names to avoid detection from legal authorities. The most common slang names for methcathinone include:
- CAT
- KAT
- Khat
- Catnip
- Meow
- Kitty
- Methedrone
- Ephedrone
- Jeff
- Intash
- Goob
- Gaggers
- Gagers
- Slick Superspeed
- Qat
- M-Cat
- The C
- Wildcat
- Wonder Star
Knowing these names could potentially help you identify a CAT drug addiction in someone you know.
Effects of CAT Drug
The side effects of the CAT drug are similar to those of other stimulants like cocaine and meth. The most common effects of CAT use include:
- Feelings of euphoria
- Increased confidence
- Loss of appetite
- Increased feelings of love for others
- Hyperactivity
- Damage to the nasal cavities (when snorted)
- Markings or scarring in injection sites (when used intravenously)
- Involuntary teeth grinding
- Vision problems
- Increased alertness
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Hallucinations
- Restlessness
- Inability to sleep
- Dehydration
- Psychosis
- Delusions
- Violent or aggressive behavior
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Cardiovascular problems
- Addiction
The short- and long-term CAT drug addiction symptoms are extremely debilitating and can lead to overdose or death. People who fail to get addiction treatment are more likely to experience these negative side effects. Our rehab center offers different substance abuse programs in Texas that cover a multitude of addictions. With us, each of our patients has the chance to change their life for the better.
Methcathinone drug addiction is a growing problem in various countries across the globe, including the United States. It’s important to be aware of this drug and its dangers.
If you have a drug or alcohol problem, admitting your addiction may be tough. Fortunately, you can call Banyan Texas now at 888-280-4763 to learn how you can get sober with the help of our residential addiction treatment in Texas.
Source:
- ScienceDirect - Methcathinone
