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(Health-NewsWire.Net, August 21, 2015 ) West Palm Beach, FL -- As flakka emerges as a popular drug across South Florida, Nova Southeastern University epidemiologist Jim Hall says that flakka, a synthetic drug, doesn't seem to be leaving the South Florida drug scene. "The flakka frenzy (has) caught our attention," says Hall ,according to Palm Beach Post.
The long-lasting effects of flakka on its users and the South Florida region is the cause of a standing-room only crowd of more than 200 at the Hanley Center as a part of the Flakka Community Response forum hosted by the Palm Beach County Substance Awareness Coalition. The coalition, which has been around since the 1980's, aims to help in reducing and preventing alcohol and drug abuse in Palm Beach County.
Hall explained in the forum that the synthetic drug takes very little time to induce a high which causes "excited delirium" which causes symptoms such as paranoia, hyperstimulation and hallucinations which can cause injury or even death. "This isn't spice or bath salts or incense,these are psychoactive substances that change the brain's function," said Hall during the forum.
Executive director of the coalition, Jeff Kadel says many people don't realize that flakka affects the brain. Unlike drinking alcohol which can cause users to have a hangover the next day, flakka's effects can last up to five days.
Due to there being an increased demand for the drug's cheap high, which costs about three to five dollars for one-tenth of a gram, drug dealers are purchasing the product online from China for $1,500. The low price of purchasing the product brings dealers a serious profit, a kilo of flakka can make about 10,000 sales for around $50,000, according to the coalition's drug trends report for July.
To help with prevention, Kadel says the coalition implemented the "Don't Be A Guinea Pig" program which discourages individuals from trying synthetic drugs such as flakka, which are known for their unknown potency or side effects. However, Kadell says with new synthetic drugs coming out so often, it's a challenge to focus on just one.
Kadel also added that in addition to putting together town halls similar to the forum to educate and create action plans with the community , the group also plans to train first responders so they're educated on what to look for when dealing with someone who's potentially on flakka.
A medical associate from West Palm Beach Drug Rehab comments "I think it's awesome efforts are being made to help fight against the growing problem of flakka use in South Florida. It's quite frightening how quickly this drug is gaining popularity in our communities however I remain inspired that with continued effort we can stop the issue head on."
West Palm Beach Drug Rehab is a comprehensive drug treatment facility in West Palm Beach, FL which specializes in providing a multitude of addiction treatment services for various substance use problems. The facility is staffed by a team of classically trained medical professionals and addiction specialists and monitored 24/7 to assure patients a safe and effective recovery treatment.
To learn more about the services provided at West Palm Beach Drug Rehab, visit their website at http://westpalmbeachdrugrehab.org/ or call their 24/7 helpline at (561) 513-5749.
About West Palm Beach Drug Rehab:
West Palm Beach Drug Rehab is a South Florida based drug an alcohol rehab treatment facility providing high quality and effective treatment services.
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West Palm Beach Drug Rehab West Palm Beach Drug Rehab
(561)513-5749
info@westpalmbeachdrugrehab.org
Source: EmailWire.Com 
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