Two days after the anti-narcotics cell seized a consignment of four kilograms of Ephedrine and arrested two Nigerians, officials have said that the substance is a popular party drug and is being exported or smuggled out in large quantities from India.
two Nigerians were arrested following the by the Anti Narcotics Cell (ANC) in possession of a consignment of four kilograms of Ephedrine near Mumbai University in Kalina, the officials have termed this stimulant drug as a popular party drug that is being exported or smuggled out in large quantities from the country.
Ephedrine is a drug precursor which is a controlled substance under the Narcotics Drug and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Although it is medically prescribed to treat lung disorders such as bronchitis, it is also a powerful narcotic.
According to anti-drug officials, the drug in its raw form as well as processed form is exported in large quantities from India to countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, China, Japan and Indonesia.
Inspector Vijay Belge of the Ghatkopar unit of the anti-narcotics cell said, "The drug, which is available in its raw form in medical stores is processed and converted into Amphetamine Type Stimulant and is used as a party drug."
Also known as ice cube drug, Ephedrine causes illusions and distorted perception of time and space, with effects being similar to that of cocaine. It is used in the form of tablets or cubes and consumed with alcohol or other drinks.
"The drug, a white powder, is easily available here. One kilogram of the drug costs Rs50,000. In international market, it fetches more than double the price. That apart, trafficking of Ephedrine is less risky than dealing in heroin," said an officer from ANC.
He added that they had seized five to six kgs of the recreational drug so far this year. There is not much awareness about this drug's ill effects, he said.
Senior psychiatrist Yusuf Matcheswalla said, "Ephedrine is not a drug of choice for addiction, but is a powerful stimulant. It is mostly consumed by athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Apart from treating respiratory disorders, it is used in cough syrup, anti-allergic tablets, and for weight-loss therapy."
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