Mkat, scientifically known as mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone or 4-MMC), is a synthetic stimulant drug. It belongs to both the amphetamine and cathinone classes of substances. It is also known by street names like meow meow, MCAT, drone, bubbles, and white magic.
Understanding Mkat
Mephedrone is a synthetic cathinone, a man-made chemical similar to those found in the khat plant, a shrub from East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It appears as a white powder or crystals, but can also be found in capsules or pills. Historically, it was marketed as “bath salts” or “plant food” before its legal status changed.
Common methods of administration include snorting or swallowing. Some individuals also inject the drug. After consumption, the drug’s effects are felt quickly.
Immediate and Long-Term Effects
Upon consumption, mephedrone can induce intense pleasure and euphoria. Users may feel energetic, talkative, and experience increased confidence, sociability, and empathy. Physical effects include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, sweating, and teeth grinding. Some users also report blurred vision, light-headedness, and a distorted sense of time.
Long-term use of mephedrone can lead to more severe effects. Psychologically, individuals may develop paranoia, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Hallucinations and psychotic episodes, including delusions, are also reported. Physiologically, long-term use can contribute to cardiovascular problems like heart attacks, kidney damage, and muscle spasms. Frequent snorting can cause nasal irritation and nosebleeds.
Associated Risks and Legal Implications
Mephedrone carries a significant risk of overdose, especially when taken in large amounts or combined with other substances. Overdose symptoms include severe agitation, chest pain, dangerously high body temperature, seizures, and a rapid heartbeat, potentially leading to heart failure or death. The unregulated nature of mephedrone means its strength and purity can vary widely, increasing the danger of accidental overdose.
The drug has a high potential for psychological dependence. Users often develop intense cravings and a compulsive urge to re-dose. This can lead to binge use, where individuals may stay awake for days consuming the drug. Withdrawal symptoms share similarities with other stimulants.
Mephedrone is a controlled substance in many regions. In the United Kingdom, it is classified as a Class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. In the United States, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies mephedrone as a Schedule I controlled substance. This classification signifies it has no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Possession, sale, or manufacture of mephedrone can result in serious legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Recognizing Use and Finding Support
Identifying mephedrone use can involve observing several physical and behavioral signs. Physically, individuals may exhibit dilated pupils, rapid speech, hyperactivity, and teeth clenching. Track marks might be visible if the drug is injected, and neglecting personal hygiene can also be a sign of chronic use. Behaviorally, paranoia, extreme impulsiveness, and uncharacteristic secretiveness or isolation may be present.
When an individual attempts to stop using mephedrone, withdrawal symptoms can emerge. These commonly include intense cravings for the drug, profound fatigue, depression, anxiety, and irritability. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or vivid nightmares, are also frequently reported. Some individuals may experience memory loss, headaches, and muscle tremors during withdrawal.
For those concerned about mephedrone use, various resources offer support. Substance abuse helplines can provide immediate guidance and direct individuals to appropriate services. Addiction treatment centers offer structured programs, including medical detoxification, to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Mental health professionals and support groups are also available to address the psychological aspects of dependence and provide ongoing recovery support.