What is Krokodil Drug?
Krokodil, also known as “crocodile,” “croc,” “krok,” and “poor man’s heroin,” is a street name for a homemade injectable mixture that serves as an inexpensive alternative to heroin.
What is Desomorphine?
Desomorphine, a semi-synthetic opioid, is believed to be the primary active ingredient in krokodil and is responsible for its psychoactive effects. The production of desomorphine involves readily available materials such as codeine tablets, alkali solutions, organic solvents, acidified water, iodine, and red phosphorus, all easily obtainable from retail outlets like supermarkets and drugstores. The resulting substance is a light brown liquid commonly referred to as krokodil.
The Key Component of Krokodil Drug
Desomorphine, also known as Dihydrodesoxymorphine or dihydrodesoxymorphine-D, is a potent synthetic opioid that was developed in the 1930s in the United States. It is frequently referred to as “Krokodil” or “Crocodil” on the street. In the United States, desomorphine has no approved medical uses and has been regulated since 1936. However, it was once used medically in Switzerland under the name “Permonid.”
Regulatory Status
Desomorphine is classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States.
Side Effects of Krokodil Drug
Krokodil has a rapid onset and short duration of effects. The first documented case of its misuse was in 2002. Prolonged abuse can lead to severe skin conditions, including a green and scaly appearance resembling a crocodile’s skin. This results from damage to blood vessels and surrounding tissue at injection sites. These skin injuries can progress to severe tissue damage, thrombophlebitis, gangrene, and, in severe cases, necessitate limb amputation or lead to death.
Dangers of Krokodil Drug
Individuals who inject krokodil may exhibit a range of serious symptoms, including thrombophlebitis, ulcerations, gangrene, and necrosis, which can quickly progress to limb amputation and fatal outcomes. These effects are believed to be linked to the toxic byproducts generated during homemade drug synthesis.
Krokodil Drug Abuse and Addiction
Desomorphine is primarily abused for its opioid-like effects, leading to the development of addiction, dependence, and tolerance, similar to other opioids. It is often sought as a cost-effective substitute for heroin and is typically administered through injection.
