Benzo fury addiction

Last Updated:

January 8th, 2024

Benzo Fury is an intriguing, mysterious name for a range of synthetic substances that are part of the newer generation of “designer drugs”. While its name suggests a connection to benzodiazepines, Benzo Fury refers to a group of drugs that are more chemically similar to amphetamines and ecstasy. Often marketed as a ‘legal high’ or ‘research chemical,’ the use of Benzo Fury has been linked to various health and behavioural problems, including the very real danger of Benzo Fury addiction. This calls for a deeper understanding and awareness of the drug, particularly among young adults involved in the party scene where Benzo Fury remains highly popular.

What is Benzo Fury?

Benzo Fury, often called “White Pearl”, typically refers to a group of substances, including 6-APB (6-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran) and other chemically similar drugs. These substances are synthetically made and are often touted as legal alternatives to ecstasy or MDMA. Benzo Fury is usually taken by ingesting colourful pills or snorting brown/white powders, often in nightclubs or at parties, festivals and other social events.

Scientifically, Benzo Fury acts as a psychoactive substance, stimulating the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This results in heightened mood, increased energy and a sense of euphoria. Effects usually peak within a few hours of taking the drug and then last around four hours with a gradual “come down”.

However, the positive effects are sometimes coupled with potential side effects like increased heart rate, high blood pressure and, in severe cases, hallucinations and psychosis.

Benzo fury: The lowdown

  • The chemical structure of Benzo Fury is similar to that of both amphetamines and ecstasy.
  • Benzo Fury is a Class B drug in the UK meaning it is illegal to sell, possess or supply.
  • Benzo Fury can be particularly dangerous when mixed with alcohol or other substances.

    • What is Benzo Fury addiction?

    Benzo Fury addiction is a form of legal high addiction, characterised by a compulsive need to consume the drug even though you recognise it is harmful.

    On a physical level, Benzo fury addiction develops through stages of tolerance, dependency and addiction, similar to other psychoactive substances. At first, you might consume Benzo Fury for its euphoric effects at a party or experimenting with a friend. Over time, however, repeated use can result in you developing a tolerance, which means you need more of the drugs to feel the same effects as before. This can quickly lead to dependency, where you feel like you can’t even function normally without taking Benzo Fury and experience withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, mood swings and cognitive impairments if you stop taking it.

    Man struggling with addiction

    The psychological and social aspects of Benzo Fury addiction

    Understanding the causes of Benzo Fury addiction is crucial in both prevention and treatment. Addiction to Benzo Fury, like many other substance use disorders, doesn’t arise from a single cause but is the result of a complex interplay of various factors. These factors range from individual psychological predispositions to environmental influences and genetic cues.

    Some of the most common factors include:

    Genetic predisposition
    Just as with many other types of addiction, a genetic predisposition can play a significant role in the development of Benzo Fury addiction. This means that if you have a family history of substance abuse, you may have a higher risk of developing a substance abuse disorder yourself, including an addiction to Benzo Fury.
    Psychological factors
    Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can lead people to self-medicate with substances like Benzo Fury. This self-medication can quickly escalate to Benzo Fury addiction as users experience initial relief and then become dependent on the drug to manage their mental health.
    Environmental influences
    Social settings that normalise or encourage drug use can greatly increase the risk of becoming addicted to Benzo Fury. Contributing factors include your home environment, how stressful your life is, the people you associate with and the availability of Benzo Fury.
    Recreational use and experimentation
    Recreational use often downplays the risks of drug taking, particularly for younger people who are often more adventurous anyway. However, experimentation with drugs like Benzo Fury, often driven by curiosity or peer influence, can lead to regular use and the onset of addiction.
    Coping mechanism for stress or trauma
    For some, the use of Benzo Fury may begin as a way to cope with stress, trauma or emotional pain. Over time, reliance on the drug to handle these issues can develop into a Benzo Fury addiction, which makes the underlying issues worse.
    Influence of media and pop culture
    Media portrayal and pop culture can sometimes glamorise or trivialise the use of “legal highs” like Benzo Fury. This can encourage people to experiment with these drugs under the misconception that they are safe or fashionable.

    Woman struggling with addiction

    How to spot Benzo Fury addiction signs

    Recognising Benzo Fury addiction signs can be challenging, particularly as it is not as well-known as other drugs. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you know, here are some Benzo Fury addiction symptoms to look out for:

  • Increasing amounts of Benzo Fury being needed to get the same effects (tolerance)
  • Spending a lot of time and energy on seeking and using Benzo Fury
  • Neglecting important responsibilities due to Benzo Fury use
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using Benzo Fury.
  • Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control Benzo Fury use.
  • Using Benzo Fury in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended.
  • Using Benzo Fury in situations where it is physically hazardous.
  • Continuing to use Benzo Fury even though you recognise some of the above issues.

    • If these Benzo Fury symptoms resonate with your experience, it may be a sign to seek professional advice.

    What are the effects of Benzo Fury abuse and addiction?

    Benzo Fury abuse and addiction can have profound effects on every part of your life. These effects span the physical, psychological and social aspects of well-being and can lead to lasting consequences. They include:

    Physical health effects
    • Cardiovascular issues: Regular use of Benzo Fury can significantly strain the cardiovascular system, leading to issues such as irregular heart rhythms, hypertension and, in severe cases, the risk of heart attack or stroke.

     

    • Neurological impact: Benzo Fury’s stimulant properties can cause neurological effects, including seizures, tremors and a heightened risk of developing neurological disorders.

     

    • Organ damage: Prolonged use may lead to liver and kidney damage due to the toxic effects of the chemicals in Benzo Fury.

     

    • Risk of overdose: There is a high risk of overdose with Benzo Fury, which can be potentially fatal. Symptoms of overdose include extreme agitation, hallucinations, severe hyperthermia and cardiovascular collapse. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or someone else, seek medical assistance immediately.
    Mental health effects
    • Psychiatric disorders: Benzo Fury abuse can lead to anxiety, depression and psychotic episodes. These can include hallucinations and delusional thinking, particularly after prolonged use.

     

    • Cognitive impairment: Abuse of Benzo Fury can impair cognitive functions such as memory, attention and decision-making, making daily activities and responsibilities more challenging.
    Social and personal impacts
    • Relationship strain: Benzo Fury addiction can strain personal relationships, leading to social isolation and alienating you from your family and friends.

     

    • Work and academic problems: The cognitive and psychological effects of Benzo Fury can impair performance in school and work settings, potentially leading to academic failure or job loss.

     

    • Legal issues: Possession or distribution of Benzo Fury is illegal in the UK and can result in legal repercussions, including fines and imprisonment.

    How is Benzo Fury addiction treated?

    For those struggling with Benzo Fury addiction, seeking professional treatment is crucial in addressing these diverse and complex issues. At UKAT, Benzo Fury addiction treatment involves a comprehensive approach with three main stages:

     

    Legal high detox: This involves safely withdrawing from Benzo Fury under medical supervision. It allows you to break free from physical dependence and enables your body and mind to begin healing, which is crucial for the next stage…

    Legal high rehab: This stage combines structured therapy sessions, lifestyle lessons, holistic approaches and relapse prevention strategies. The aim is to address the psychological aspects of Benzo Fury addiction and give you the tools and coping mechanisms you need to stay sober for life.

    Aftercare: This is ongoing support post-rehab to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. At UKAT, aftercare is free and involves one year of weekly group therapy sessions to guide and assist you through difficult moments.

    Group therapy

    Start the journey to Benzo Fury recovery today

    If you or someone you know is struggling with Benzo Fury addiction, take the first step towards recovery with UKAT. Our expert team provides comprehensive treatment plans in a supportive environment to help you overcome Benzo Fury addiction and regain control of your life. Contact UKAT today and begin your journey to a healthier, substance-free future.

    Call us now for help
    +44 2039 496 584

    FAQ’s

    I think my loved one is addicted to Benzo Fury. What should I do?
    If you suspect that a loved one is addicted to Benzo Fury, it is important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Start by learning about the drug and its effects to comprehend their experience better. Open a non-judgemental dialogue about your concerns and encourage them to seek professional help. Addiction to substances like Benzo Fury can be complex, and they must receive support at a rehab facility like UKAT.
    Why is Benzo Fury called a “legal high”?
    Benzo Fury is often termed a “legal high” because, for a time, it fell into a legal grey area. It was a newly synthesised substance that wasn’t specifically listed in drug legislation, allowing it to be sold legally under the guise of ‘not for human consumption’, typically as ‘research chemicals’ or ‘plant food’. This term is misleading, however, as these substances are still dangerous and are now illegal, including in the UK, where Benzo Fury is now a Class B drug.