What Is Shatter? It’s Not Your Ordinary “Pot”
You are here:Recreational drug developers continue to create new substances with increased potency. The process often involves using cheaper chemicals that are highly dangerous to human health. Among the hundreds of new and highly addictive illicit substances available today, Shatter drug has emerged.
Young people are intrigued by Shatter because of its unique color, the ritual of breaking the brittle pieces, and the intense, mood-altering effects it provides. It is often referred to as “the crack of marijuana.” The risk of Shatter lies in the way it slams the brain with an immediate high.
What Is Shatter Drug?
Shatter is a marijuana derivative that contains as much as 90% THC, which makes it five times more potent than unrefined, smoked cannabis. In other words, this substance is not your ordinary pot. Shatter is highly addictive and produces a stronger, faster high than regular marijuana.
The name Shatter refers to the brittle texture of the substance that cracks or shatters when preparing for ingestion. Shatter has a gold color that resembles toffee and it smells like hashish. It is typically inhaled after being heated in a pipe. On the street, Shatter sells for $80 to $100 per gram, similar in cost to cocaine and MDMA.
Street names for Shatter are:
- BHO (Butane Hash Oil)
- Dabs
- Honey Oil
- Wax
- Sap
- Budder
Two types of Shatter are available. CBD shatter is extremely high in cannabidiol, with low levels of THC. This form is preferred by medical marijuana users for its therapeutic effects without the high associated with THC forms of the substance.
How Is Shatter Drug Produced?
Essentially, shatter is concentrated marijuana extracted by means of a chemical process that may be volatile. To create Shatter, butane extracts are pushed through a tube containing cannabis. The process strips away the desirable components such as THC and CBD. The resulting concentrated oil can be further refined using various techniques.
It is extremely dangerous to attempt to make Shatter with a DIY setup due to the flammability of butane fumes. The production process also creates a high risk of ingesting harmful trace chemicals when smoking Shatter. As a result, producing Shatter is illegal, even in states with legalized medical marijuana.
What Are the Side Effects of Shatter Drug?
Many people who use Shatter justify it with the rationale that it’s “just pot.” Sadly, this rationale can result in a user passing out or slipping into a state of drug-induced psychosis. It’s extremely important to realize that Shatter is not simply marijuana. This drug can cause more serious side effects than smoking pot.
Side effects of Shatter include:
- Anxiety
- Overwhelming paranoia
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Airway pain and spasms
- Sore throat
- Weakened immune system
- Drug-induced psychosis
- Respiratory problems
- Disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness
Although most people argue that marijuana isn’t addictive, there is a chance of developing a mental dependency to Shatter. Over time, the use will feel the need to consume higher quantities to get the desired effects.
Is Shatter Associated With Withdrawal Symptoms?
As with any illicit substance, prolonged use of Shatter can result in withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued. Possible withdrawal symptoms of Shatter may include:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Depression
- Nausea
- Cravings
Studies show that heavy Shatter use can alter the brain’s production of anandamide which can interfere with normal brain communication processes. It acts as a central nervous system depressant that can cause cognitive issues and may worsen mental health disorders.
According to marijuana advocates, no one has died from using Shatter or marijuana if they are educated about proper usage. The significant difference in potency between Shatter and marijuana, however, can cause adverse reactions.
Treatment for Shatter Addiction at Design for Change Recovery
If you are experiencing unpleasant side effects of Shatter addiction, reach out to Design for Change Recovery. We offer a comprehensive, evidence-based marijuana treatment program that can be customized for your unique needs.
In addition to onsite detox, the program options at Design for Change Recovery include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Group and Individual Counseling
- Holistic Therapy
- Music and Art Therapy
- Biosound Therapy
- Exercise and Fitness Routines
- Nutritional Guidance
- Psychodrama Therapy
Our programs are flexible, allowing clients to choose 30, 60, or 90-day treatment plans. We want our clients to have all the time they need to effectively overcome addiction. We also offer aftercare programs to help clients stay on track in their recovery process.
Contact Design for Change Recovery at our Lancaster, CA facility today to begin your journey towards a substance-free future.
Sources:
- cdc.gov/marijuana/ – What We Know About Marijuana
- mpp.org/ – FAQ: Marijuana Use and Health Effects
- cdc.gov/– Marijuana FAQs
