Mephedrone Withdrawal

Editorial Staff avatar
Written by: Editorial Staff
Updated: Aug 04, 2023

Mephedrone is a synthetic stimulant drug that can make mental and physical function feel boosted for a short period of time. As a synthetic cathinone, it is one of the many chemicals that may be found in bath salts.

This page will discuss mephedrone withdrawal and how to find treatment for mephedrone addiction.

Drug Schedule of Mephedrone

Mephedrone is a Schedule I drug as of 2011 because of its intense stimulating high and related psychological and physical dangers. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) first found the drug in the United States in 2009 when many other synthetic cathinones were shipped in as “bath salts” or labeled as other “not for human consumption” chemicals like “plant food,” “glass cleaner,” or other names.

In 2009, the National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) reported 10 instances of mephedrone intoxication or poisoning. By 2011, there were 336 reports of the drug, and by 2012, there were only 60 reports due to temporary scheduling changes moving it into Schedule I. This change prevented convenient sales of the drugs and enabled law enforcement oversight of people who potentially had it in their possession.

Why Is Mephedrone Addictive?

It is speculated that a person may develop a mephedrone addiction in order to maintain the effects of the substance. The effects of mephedrone typically begin between 15 and 45 minutes after the drug is consumed. These effects last about two or three hours, although effects like high excitement and low inhibitions may only last for 10 minutes.

Then, the body quickly metabolizes the drug, leading to a slump from the brain not producing enough dopamine. The user may take more mephedrone very quickly to continue to feel the desired effects or avoid mephedrone withdrawal symptoms. This can lead to a stimulant use disorder, or the continued compulsive use of mephedrone despite negative consequences.

Quick Onset of Mephedrone Withdrawal Symptoms

Research published in 2014 found that mephedrone had greater stimulant action on the brain than MDMA, or ecstasy, which the drug is often compared to. Mephedrone releases more neurotransmitters than MDMA, which means that acute withdrawal symptoms can be very intense. A 2011 report from The Guardian reported that as much as one-third of “clubbers” in the United Kingdom who abused mephedrone may have been addicted to the substance, making withdrawal symptoms more serious than just a hangover.

The substance also hits the brain faster than MDMA, and it is metabolized more quickly. This means that the high from taking mephedrone is very rapid, which can quickly lead to compulsive behaviors to get another jolt of a high. This type of abuse can quickly lead to tolerance or dependence if the person does not overdose on the substance. Trying to stop abuse of mephedrone when in this bingeing pattern is incredibly tough. Medical oversight may be needed, not just for potential withdrawal symptoms, but to also reduce the risk of relapse.

Mephedrone Withdrawal Symptoms

People who misuse mephedrone for a long time and who may have developed a dependence on the drug may experience more intense withdrawal symptoms. Mephedrone withdrawal symptoms may begin about a day after their last dose, peak within two or three days, and end after about seven days.

Psychological withdrawal symptoms may include:

  • Tiredness.
  • Sleep Disturbances.
  • Anxiety.
  • Depression.

Physical withdrawal symptoms may include:

  • Nasal congestion.
  • Physical tremors.
  • Digestive problems.
  • Return of appetite.

Mephedrone Addiction Treatment & Help

If you or someone you love is struggling with mephedrone addiction, help is available. Laguna Treatment’s Orange County rehab provides evidence-based care that is customized for each patient. To learn more about the addiction treatment levels of care offered, call .

Compassionate admissions navigators are available 24/7 to answer your questions about Laguna’s treatment programs, how to pay for rehab, and walk you through using insurance to pay for rehab. You can also quickly and confidentially .

Please don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Start the rehab admissions process now.

The Price of Not Getting Help
When contemplating the costs of addiction treatment for yourself, child, or loved one, consider the costs, or consequences, of “things as they are now.” What would happen if the substance abuse or addiction continued? Rehab doesn't have to be expensive. We accept a variety of insurances. Learn more below.