Quaaludes

Methaqualone, commonly known as Quaalude, is a depressant that shares similar properties with barbiturates. Although it is chemically unrelated to barbiturates, it has similar effects. Its effects include relaxation, euphoria, drowsiness and reduced heart rate. Much like barbiturates, addiction to Quaaludes develops quickly.

 

In 1965, methaqualone was introduced into the United States as a prescription drug. It was believed to be a ‘safer alternative’ to barbiturates for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. At first, methaqualone had no drug classification and was an uncontrolled substance. It was soon widely over-prescribed and illegally diverted into street sales. By 1973 it had become evident that qualudes, often referred to as ‘ludes’ or ‘sopors’ in drug culture, were dangerous and had serious potential for abuse. They became classified as a Schedule II drug and eventually as a Schedule I drug in 1984. Its status as a Schedule I drug means that, according to the Food and Drug Administration, methaqualone is considered unsafe, has a high potential for abuse, and has no currently accepted medicinal use.

 

Quaaludes are currently relatively rare in the United States. It cannot be legally manufactured domestically, so it is made in other countries and imported illegally. One source of trafficking is Canada, where it is legally available by prescription.

 

When smoked, Quaaludes’ euphoric effects are shorter and more intense. Smoking methaqualone pills is dangerous because various additives in the pills become toxic. The toxic effects of these additives could lead to emphysema and other chronic lung disorders.

 

Side effects of methaqualone or Quaaludes can include:

The drug side effects that can occur at higher doses include depression, motor difficulties and slurred speech. Overdoses of Quaaludes can be fatal, especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines. In the occurrence of a drug overdose, medical attention should be sought immediately. Symptoms of a methaqualone drug overdose include:

Methaqualone and Quaaludes are extremely addictive both psychologically and physically. Physical dependency can develop from moderate daily doses taken for as little as two weeks. The longer that methaqualone has been used, the more severe the withdrawal symptoms are. Severe cravings can last for long periods after withdrawal symptoms subside. Withdrawal symptoms of Quaaludes are similar to those of barbiturate drugs and can include: