If you’ve ever heard of Quaaludes, sometimes called Lemmons, then you may think back to the 1970s.

Although they’re usually considered an older drug that only existed in a different generation, they’re still very common. If you’ve ever seen the movie Wolf of Wall Street, then you may remember the scene in which Jordan Belfort, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, is high on Quaaludes. As a drug treatment facility in Texas, we’re familiar with Quaalude addiction and the dangers of this drug that’s unknown to many.

What Are Quaaludes?

Quaalude is the brand name for a synthetic, sedative-hypnotic drug called methaqualone. They also go by brand names like Malsed, Renoval, Malsedin, Cloroqualone, and Etaqualone. Quaaludes are central nervous system depressants that were popularly prescribed as sleep aids and were used as recreational drugs between the 1960s and 1980s until they were banned by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). The main ingredient in Quaaludes is methaqualone, which is an anxiolytic, or a drug used to reduce anxiety, and a sedative that acts as a hypnotic drug to induce drowsiness and sleep. Although they were originally marketed as a safe substitute for barbiturates to promote sleep, their potential for abuse and addiction was quickly discovered. Despite being illegal, Quaaludes are often sold on the black market. They usually come in the form of tablets with the number 714 imprinted on them or capsules that are tasteless, odorless, and cheap.

The most common ways to ingest Quaaludes are by taking them as pills or capsules, crushing them to mix with marijuana and smoked, or by liquifying them to be drunk or injected. Common street names for Quaaludes include 714s, Lemmons, soapers, and Ludes. The abuse of Quaaludes can lead to various adverse side effects and long-term health problems. Those who have developed an addiction to Quaaludes can recover with the help of our treatment programs in Texas.

What Do Quaaludes Do?

The active ingredient in Quaaludes, methaqualone, is a central nervous system depressant that works by increasing the activity of GABA receptors in the brain, which respond to a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). When GABA is released, it drops the heart rate, breathing, pulse, and blood pressure, causing the person to feel relaxed, so it was also considered an effective form of anxiety treatment. However, due to the feelings of euphoria and sense of well-being it also produces, its potential for addiction outweighed any of its benefits.

Signs and Symptoms of Quaalude Addiction

If you or a loved one suspects Quaalude abuse, it’s helpful to be aware of any indicative signs and symptoms. Quaalude effects usually peak within a few hours after it has been ingested and may stay in the person’s system anywhere between 20 and 60 hours.

The most common Quaalude side effects include:

• Euphoria
• Sense of well-being
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Slurred speech
• Memory problems
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Rash and itching
• Hives
• Excessive sweating
• Dry mouth
• Tingling or numbing sensation in the extremities
• Reduce heart rate
• Shallow or slowed breathing
• Seizures

Because of its effects on breathing, Quaalude drug abuse can also lead to respiratory depression or extremely shallow breathing. It can also cause erectile dysfunction and other issues related to sexual intercourse. In high doses, Quaaludes can cause severe confusion and complete loss of motor control – also known as ataxia – as well as overdose. A person who has developed a severe dependence on Quaaludes should receive professional treatment right away. At Banyan Treatment Centers Texas, we offer a medically monitored detox that helps wean patients off of drugs and alcohol while addressing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

As with any other form of substance abuse, Quaalude addiction isn’t just limited to physical struggles, but can also cause relationship problems and financial issues. Many individuals who continue abusing drugs or alcohol long-term also develop mental illness. Quaaludes can make it nearly impossible for a person to stay healthy and enjoy their life.

If you or a loved one has trouble admitting their addiction to Quaaludes, we can help. Call Banyan Texas today at 888-280-4763 to learn more about the addiction services offered at our drug and alcohol rehab in Waelder.