“Synthetic Drugs Are Highly Toxic & Cause Irreversible Damage to the Brain”

The concerning increase in synthetic drugs and their effects on society is a pressing issue in today’s world. With their potentially devastating effects on mental health and behavior, understanding these substances is more crucial than ever. Dr Siddick Maudarbocus sheds light on the dangers they pose, the challenges of identifying users, and the urgent need for effective legislation and public awareness.

When we talk about drugs, how should we define them?

Any substance that alters brain function and affects an individual’s behaviour should be classified as a drug.

This includes alcohol, cannabis, heroin, and other substances defined by law. However, we now face a new threat: synthetic drugs, which are composed of artificial molecules and pose significant hazards.

What are the dangers associated with synthetic drugs?

These substances are extremely toxic and can cause irreversible damage to the brain. Even as addiction specialists, we still have much to learn about their effects.

They are evolving at an alarming rate, outpacing our scientific advancements in understanding their consequences.

What we do know is that they tend to be far more destructive than alcohol, heroin, or even cannabis.

What impact do these drugs have on users, particularly drivers?

When someone consumes drugs, their perception of reality dramatically changes.

A person might see a straight path when it is actually curved or think they are driving slowly while speeding dangerously.

This not only puts them at risk but also endangers others on the road. With synthetic drugs, these distortions are even more pronounced.

Some users may experience suicidal thoughts shortly after consumption, while others may drive without a second thought about the dangers.

There’s an urgent need for legislation to ban driving under the influence of psychoactive substances.

How can one identify if someone is under the influence of these drugs?

The signs are quite apparent. You’ll notice a distinct change in behaviour: an absence of eye contact, a glazed look, and a sense of being in a different dimension.

Their facial expressions and body language often become incoherent, and their reactions are impaired.

Is the police force adequately trained to detect these signs?

Unfortunately, no. Currently, officers carry out routine checks and verify driving licences, but they lack the necessary training to spot the signs of impaired driving due to drugs.

This is a serious public safety issue.

They must receive targeted training in this area, and this awareness should also be integrated into schools so that teachers can identify students who may be using these substances.

Why do you think so many people turn to drugs?

Drugs are often seen as an escape. We live in a society overwhelmed by a culture of immediacy—’fast food, fast sex, fast everything.’ Many seek a sense of euphoria because they feel disconnected from their true selves.

Unfortunately, awareness campaigns have had limited success because they often ignore a fundamental truth: humans are emotional beings.

When confronted with vices, people often do not think rationally.

Take, for example, doctors who smoke despite knowing the risks; this illustrates just how challenging it is to combat addiction through reasoning alone.

What measures do you think would be effective in addressing this issue?

First, we need strict penalties. Anyone causing an accident while under the influence should face immediate suspension of their driving licence for at least one year, with reinstatement contingent on passing a competency test.

A 24-hour detention period could also deter individuals.

Additionally, mandatory rehabilitation for a minimum of one month should follow any case of driving under the influence, possibly extending to four months depending on the substances consumed.

You’ve mentioned a discussion on the decriminalisation of cannabis. What is your position on that?

Cannabis remains a drug, and no one should drive under its influence. However, it could serve as a harm reduction tool.

Unlike synthetic drugs, cannabis is better understood and less destructive.

By regulating its decriminalisation, we could potentially provide a safer alternative for those who would otherwise gravitate toward more dangerous substances.

The experiences of countries like the United States and parts of Europe show that many successful professionals use cannabis without it negatively impacting their work or social lives.

Do you believe prohibition is an effective strategy for dealing with drug issues?

No, prohibition does not solve the problem, as humans inherently seek out intense experiences. Our bodies even produce natural opioids.

However, the social crisis in Mauritius combined with the influx of synthetic drugs has created an explosive situation. We need to act quickly and effectively.

Any final thoughts on the current situation?

Ten years ago, I wouldn’t have considered relaxing cannabis laws. However, with the rise of synthetic drugs, we are on a very dangerous path.

It’s crucial that we rethink our approach to addiction and take radical action to save lives. We must move swiftly; if we don’t act decisively by 2025, we risk reaching a point of no return.

Source: Defi Media