Drugs Addiction

This acid-like designer drug is becoming increasingly prevalent in Britain's clubs. Know the facts about foxy.

AKA:

Foxy Methoxy, 5-MeO-DIPT, fake ecstasy.

Background:

Foxy is a synthetic drug with hallucinogenic properties. It belongs to a group of chemical compounds called tryptamines. This group also includes psilocybin and psilocyn, both of which occur naturally in magic mushrooms. Foxy comes in capsule form, as well as a powder or tablet. In tablet form it is sometimes passed off as ecstasy.

The effects:

• Foxy is a hallucinogen and often distorts the way users see, hear and perceive their surroundings;
• Effects can include hallucinations and a sense of euphoria. Effects depend on the strength of the drug, the user's mood, their location and surroundings. This means a good trip is not guaranteed;
• Some users may experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea;
• High doses can mean experiencing a similar effect to LSD;
• The effects of Foxy reportedly last 3 - 6 hours, based on a dose of 6-10mg.

The risks

• Bad trips can be terrifying, and seem very real. Dizziness, disorientation, fear, paranoia, and panic may arise during a bad trip;
• The likelihood of a bad trip will increase when users are in a bad mood, anxious, nervous, uncomfortable or have a history of mental health issues;
• Foxy can complicate existing psychological issues such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia;
• With lowered inhibitions, users are at an increased risk of accidents as well as unprotected sexual activity. (It won't guarantee sex, of course, but it might mean forgetting to use condoms);
• Foxy is relatively new to UK recreational drug culture, and so the long-term risks are not entirely known.

The law

• Foxy and other hallucinogens are Class A drugs;
• It is illegal to supply or possess this drug.

If you are planning on taking this drug

• As foxy is a dose-dependent drug, users are advised to wait until the effects kick in from taking a small amount before they consider taking any more;
• Avoid taking foxy if you're feeling at all unsettled or uncomfortable with your surroundings. It can have a negative impact on any hallucinatory effects;
• Do not mix foxy with alcohol or other drugs.