Quaaludes were very popular in the 1960s and 1970s as a synthetic central nervous system depressant. It was originally introduced as a safe barbiturate substitute with people believing there would be no negative effects. Even though Quaaludes are no longer legal in the US, there are still people who are addicted and need to get help before suffering a fatal overdose.
In 1972, Quaaludes used to be the most popular drug since people felt they could escape their problems for a few hours. Quaaludes would cause relaxation, euphoria, sleepiness, increased sexual arousal, higher pain tolerance, increased sensitivity, and increased confidence. It was popular in college to “lude out” by taking Quaaludes with wine which would increase the symptoms. What people did not realize is by mixing Quaaludes with alcohol or other drugs can be a gateway to a fatal overdose.
There are dangerous side effects to Quaaludes such as rapid heartbeat, vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, anxiety, stomach pains, organ damage, coma, and much more. It takes half an hour to kick in and lasts five to eight hours. Because of these side effects, in 1973, Quaaludes was a schedule II drug where it was difficult to prescribe and illegal to possess without a prescription. In 1984, Quaaludes were changed to a schedule I drug where it was no longer legally available in the US.
It is important for those who want to quit Quaaludes to be under the supervision of a medical professional to avoid withdrawal symptoms like pins and needles sensations, convulsions, insomnia, and more. If you know someone who has overdosed on Quaaludes, immediate call 911. Do not leave that person alone and try to keep the person awake. Make sure that person is sitting to prevent aspiration or choking on vomit. If that person has a seizure, make sure there are no objects or furniture nearby to prevent that person from bumping into something.
When someone overdoses from Quaaludes and is sent to the emergency room, it is possible that medical staff will pump their stomach and administer activated charcoal. There are medications to speed the elimination of the drug from the gastrointestinal tract. There are inpatient rehabs where you can partake in individual and group therapy as well as drug awareness education. Outpatient treatment will be part time treatment while at home, work, and school. Seek help if you fall under the influence of Quaaludes.
