Krokodil drug, or desomorphine, is a powerful synthetic opioid infamous for its destructive effects on the human body. Nicknamed the “flesh-eating drug,” it gained notoriety in Russia during the early 2000s, but its presence in the United States has raised alarm in recent years. While not as prevalent as heroin or fentanyl, Krokodil poses a unique and terrifying threat due to its toxic composition and devastating impact on users.

What Is Krokodil?

Krokodil is a crude street version of desomorphine, a synthetic opioid derived from codeine. Originally developed in the 1930s for medical use, desomorphine is 8–10 times more potent than morphine but has a much shorter duration of action.

The street version of Krokodil is produced in makeshift labs using easily accessible chemicals such as:

  • Codeine (from over-the-counter medications).
  • Gasoline, paint thinner, and hydrochloric acid.
  • Phosphorus (extracted from matchstick heads).

These toxic additives contribute to the severe tissue necrosis and organ damage associated with its use. For more on the chemical composition of Krokodil, visit this study on desomorphine production and effects.

Why Is Krokodil Called the “Flesh-Eating Drug”?

The name “Krokodil” comes from the scaly, greenish skin lesions that develop around injection sites. These effects are caused by:

  • Severe tissue damage due to toxic impurities in the drug.
  • Blood vessel destruction, leading to poor circulation and necrosis.
  • Untreated infections that result in gangrene, sometimes requiring amputations.

Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), warns: “The impurities in Krokodil make it one of the most harmful substances ever abused. It’s not just an addiction—it’s a rapid path to physical destruction.”

Is Krokodil a Problem in the United States?

Unlike in Russia, where Krokodil gained widespread use as a cheaper heroin alternative, its presence in the U.S. has been sporadic. Reports of Krokodil use emerged in states like Arizona, Illinois, and Oklahoma between 2013 and 2015. However, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has not recorded significant Krokodil activity in recent years.

Why Krokodil Use Is Limited in the U.S.:

  • High Availability of Heroin and Fentanyl: The U.S. opioid crisis is dominated by these drugs, leaving little demand for alternatives like Krokodil.
  • Tighter Codeine Regulations: Over-the-counter codeine, a key ingredient, is heavily restricted in the U.S., making Krokodil production more challenging.
  • Public Awareness: Graphic media coverage and awareness campaigns have deterred potential users.

Despite this, experts warn that Krokodil could resurface in vulnerable communities, especially as people seek cheaper alternatives amidst the opioid crisis.

What Makes Krokodil So Dangerous?

Krokodil’s dangers extend far beyond its addictive properties. The toxic chemicals used in its production amplify its harmful effects.

Short-Term Effects:

  • Intense euphoria.
  • Sedation and pain relief.
  • Severe tissue damage around injection sites.

Long-Term Effects:

  • Tissue Necrosis: Leads to scaly skin, gangrene, and amputations.
  • Organ Failure: Chronic use can destroy the liver and kidneys.
  • Neurological Damage: Cognitive impairment, memory loss, and speech difficulties.
  • Increased Overdose Risk: Due to its potency and unpredictable composition, overdoses are common and often fatal.

Signs of Krokodil Use

Spotting the signs early can save lives. Indicators of Krokodil use include:

  • Discolored, scaly skin near injection sites.
  • Unexplained open wounds, infections, or abscesses.
  • Rapid weight loss and poor hygiene.
  • Behavioral changes, such as secrecy and social withdrawal.

If you suspect someone is using Krokodil, seek medical help immediately. For more on spotting substance abuse, refer to SAMHSA’s resources.

Why Do People Use Krokodil?

Despite its horrific effects, some individuals turn to Krokodil due to:

  • Low Cost: It is significantly cheaper than heroin or fentanyl, appealing to economically disadvantaged users.
  • Addiction Desperation: Users struggling with opioid dependency may risk using Krokodil to stave off withdrawal symptoms.
  • Lack of Awareness: In some cases, users may not know they are using Krokodil, as it is sometimes sold as heroin.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, emphasizes: “Addiction often drives individuals to make decisions that are not reflective of their character but of their disease. Substances like Krokodil thrive in these vulnerable circumstances.”

What Is Being Done to Address Krokodil Drug?

Although not widespread in the U.S., efforts to prevent the spread of Krokodil include:

  • Public Education Campaigns: Raising awareness about the drug’s dangers through media and community programs.
  • Tighter Regulations: Strict control of codeine-containing medications reduces the availability of key ingredients.
  • Harm Reduction Strategies: Expanding access to addiction treatment programs and safe injection sites to minimize harm.

FAQs About Krokodil Drug (Desomorphine)

1. Has Krokodil been found in the U.S. recently?
Reports of Krokodil use in the U.S. have been sporadic, with the most notable cases occurring between 2013 and 2015. However, it remains a concern due to its potential to reemerge in vulnerable communities.
2. How is Krokodil different from heroin?
Krokodil is cheaper and shorter-acting than heroin but far more destructive to the body due to its toxic impurities.
3. Can Krokodil addiction be treated?
Yes, treatment options include medical detox, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and behavioral therapy. Early intervention is critical to minimizing physical damage and improving recovery outcomes.

Conclusion: Krokodil in the U.S.

While Krokodil is not as prevalent in the U.S. as in Russia, its existence highlights the vulnerabilities within the opioid crisis. The drug’s catastrophic effects serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of unregulated substances and the need for comprehensive addiction treatment programs.