Core Concepts & Takeaways

• Identify common synthetic stimulants and natural or synthetic THC: Recognize the effects, Synthetic stimulants, Natural and synthetic THC.
• Identify common opioids: Recognize the effects, Explain common treatment options for a person experiencing opioid overdose.

Excerpt from the course Paramedic Recert EMS Care | 23-MCIT-F3-4121 | Toxicological Emergencies 

Synthetic stimulants come in three different forms, and based on their form, these drugs have different street names.

First off, Bliss, Blue Silk, Ivory Wave, White Dove, White Knight, and White Lightning are some of the street names for synthetic stimulants that are sold as a white powder.

This powder tends to be in a white to off-white color, and may sometimes even be sold by stuffing this powder inside capsules. Most times, these powders are inhaled nasally by sniffing or snorting. They can also be taken orally or smoked directly. Some people prefer to mix it into liquids and inject it to their veins through a syringe.

The second form is the crystals, and these are known as Crank, Crystal Meth, Glass, Ice, Tweak, Yaba, etc.. These crystals also tend to be in white or off-white in color. Sometimes, these can be of a yellow or red crystalline powder.

Like its powdered counterpart, these crystal substances are also smoked or snorted. Sometimes, they are crushed with liquid and injected as I-V.

The last synthetic stimulant we will talk about is methylenedioxymethamphetamine. This has many street names, such as Ecstasy, E, X, XTC, Smarties, Scooby-Snacks, and Skittles. These drugs are mostly sold in the form of tablets or capsules, and can be of any color.

Sometimes, this is sold as liquid drops as well. In this form, it is smoked or snorted.