Changing synthetic drug formulas complicate treatment, rehabilitation
KUALA LUMPUR: The constantly changing chemical composition of synthetic drugs is making treatment and rehabilitation increasingly challenging, particularly during detoxification.
Malaysia faces challenges in treating synthetic drug addiction due to their constantly changing chemical compositions, which complicates identification and treatment. Detoxification requires close medical supervision and accurate identification of the substances consumed, as each drug demands a unique approach. President of Persatuan Pengasih Malaysia, Hafizi Harun, highlighted the difficulty in determining the exact substances used, even when sold in identical packaging.
Different drugs, such as heroin, methamphetamine, and furanyl fentanyl, induce varying withdrawal symptoms that necessitate specific treatment methods. Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, requires special attention during detoxification, as withdrawal symptoms can be severe, potentially leading to seizures, psychosis, or even death.
Early signs of fentanyl dependence include increased dosage, withdrawal discomfort, impaired daily functioning, and loss of control over drug use. To address these issues, prevention programs, health education, and public awareness campaigns are essential. Healthcare facilities should prioritize treatment, ensuring patient safety during withdrawal, while enforcement agencies should focus on curbing drug sales and distribution.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
