If you believe psychedelic drugs can’t be dangerous or aren’t addictive, then it’s time to learn about 2ci. Also known as “smiles,” this hallucinogenic drug, about which little is known, has caused at least two deaths.
2ci is part of the 2c family of drugs, first discovered by counterculture chemist Alexander Shulgin. Classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration, buying, selling and possessing 2ci is illegal.
The 2ci Experience
2ci comes in powder form, and you ingest the substance after mixing it with a food, such as chocolate or candy. Users hope the 2ci experience will result in powerful auditory and visual hallucinations, and giddy or relaxed feelings. It also sometimes creates empathetic feelings and an environment that favors clear and honest communication.
These effects sound enjoyable, but they mask the dark side of 2ci. The drug can cause terrifying “trips” that last for hours. In one case, a teen who took 2ci hyperventilated and hit his head against the ground repeatedly. Several hours later, he died. Police charged the 18-year-old who gave him the drug with second-degree manslaughter and third-degree murder. In the same town the day before, another teen was found dead from the same drug.
The physical effects of 2ci include increased heart rate and arrhythmia, which is sometimes fatal. Other common side effects of 2ci include terrifying hallucinations, fear, panic, nausea and vomiting. It is impossible to know how a person will react from taking 2ci, but once the drug is ingested, the feelings last for hours. The 2c drugs stimulate the body in the same way that drugs such as meth do. Also like meth, it’s impossible to know if the 2c drug you’re taking contains dangerous, life-threatening toxins, like drain cleaner or other chemicals.
A Therapeutic Past
Decades ago, pharmaceutical and government researchers investigated the effects of hallucinogens on mental health disorders, such as depression. Although early research was promising, the government suspended research after 1950s and 1960s counterculture members began using the drug as a means of rebellion and dissent.
By the 1970s, experimentation with hallucinogens was largely over — but over the past few years, there has been a renewed interest in the effects of these chemicals on mental health. The important thing to know about 2ci is that this illicit drug is not one of the drugs being tested.
Signs of Addiction
Several behaviors indicate substance abuse is a problem. They include:
- Lying about drug abuse. Many addicted people feel ashamed or embarrassed about how much they use. If you hide or deny drug abuse, you may need help.
- An obsession with being high. The more time you spend planning to get high, the more likely it is you have an addiction.
- Using more and more to get the same high. Combining 2ci with other substances to get a stronger high is also a warning sign of a problem.
- Failing to perform responsibilities. If your performance at work, school or home is suffering, drug use and addiction could be to blame.
- Ignoring old friends and activities. When the things you love no longer matter, it is time to get help.
Contact 12 Keys Rehab Center for Help with Your Addiction
If you or your loved one are struggling with drug abuse and addiction, contact 12 Keys Rehab right away.