Short and Long Term Adverse Reactions in Young Drug Abusers

Abstract

A total of 100 young drug abusers registered in a treatment program were examined clinically during therapy and personally followed-up 3 and 6 years later. At the time of first contact, 69% had previously experienced flashbacks. It was found that not only users of psychedelic drugs, but also users of ephedrine, organic solvents and antihistaminic drugs reported “bad trip” experiences and flashbacks. Few physical adverse reactions were observed. At the end of the period, 40% of the males and 21% of the females still were bothered by flashbacks, but none of these had shown signs of a lasting psychotic symptomatology.

Clinical examination revealed no lasting physical damage due to the abuse of drugs. Up to the time of last follow-up, 4 persons, all males, had died.