Powders Category: Headshop Drugs

Such as: White Columbia, Raz, Amplified, Extreme Stardust, Sn*berry and Pure NRG.

How it’s used

Previous to the recent government ban on a number of substances sold in head shops, many had been found to contain cathinones. Cathinones are chemical stimulants (‘uppers’). They were often listed as ketones on packet ingredients. When you take cathinones, your body produces cathine and norpseudoephedrine, which are similar to amphetamine and adrenaline. The effects listed below are know to be associated with these 'powder' type substances sold in head shops. Products that have appeard since the recent ban include, White Columbia, Raz, Amplified, Extreme Stardust, Sn*berry and Pure NRG. After testing, compounds found in these 'post-ban' substance are Naphyrone; Lignocaine; Ethcathinone; Dimethocaine; and Caffeine. We shall update this page in light of any further developments.

Short-term effects

Effects can vary from person to person and from each time you use it
Can cause anxiety and paranoia
Compulsive re-dosing
Overheating
Rapid heart beats
Jaw clenching and grinding teeth
Narrowing of blood vessels

Long-term effects

If you have underlying mental health problems, any drug can trigger them
Because we don’t know what’s in these drugs, you are not fully informed about the risks of taking the drug or when used with other drugs

Other dangers

Like ecstasy, you need to stay hydrated but it is dangerous to drink too much too fast – best to sip 1 pint of water per hour
Tablets sold as ecstasy can sometimes contain mephedrone. Mephedrone has been linked to two deaths in Sweden.

If you are pregnant

Do not use if you are pregnant as we don’t know enough about the risks to your baby.

Addictive

You can’t become physically addicted but you may become compulsive and can’t control your use. This can lead to psychological dependence so you feel you can’t cope without it.

How long does it stay in your system?

No urine test for this yet

What help is available?

Self-help support such as Narcotics Anonymous
Counselling or psychotherapy
Complementary therapies such as acupuncture
Support from your doctor
Residential treatment programmes (clinics)
Aftercare
One to one or group family support
Contact the Drugs Helpline on 1800 459 459 to find out about options in your area

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