Context:
Recently, after Arab League reinstating Syria as its member, the discussions on the trade of Captagon pills have taken the centre-stage once again.
Relevance:
GS II: Health
Dimensions of the Article:
- Captagon Pill
- Side Effects
Captagon Pill
- Captagon is a highly addictive amphetamine-type drug that was originally produced with fenetylline, a synthetic drug belonging to the phenethylamine family.
- It was commercially sold in several countries until the 1980s but was later banned due to concerns about its addictive nature.
Effects of Amphetamine-Based Drugs:
- Amphetamine-based drugs, like Captagon, stimulate the central nervous system.
- They provide a boost of energy, enhance focus, promote wakefulness for extended periods, and induce feelings of euphoria.
- The effects of these drugs typically last for 7 to 12 hours, with a peak effect occurring one to three hours after oral consumption.
- They can remain in the blood for approximately 36 hours.
Side Effects:
- The use of amphetamine-based drugs can lead to various side effects.
- These drugs can cause loss of appetite, resulting in weight loss.
- They may also lead to heart problems, including a fast heart rate, irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and even heart attacks, which can be fatal.
- High body temperature, skin flushing, memory loss, impaired cognitive function, and the risk of stroke are additional side effects associated with these drugs.
-Source: Indian Express
