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BZP and TFMPP (party pills, kandi, exodus, frenzy, rapture, nemesis, caffine-based products)

Party pills are popular and readily available. Although often not as strong as other popular partying favourites, party pills can keep you pumping on the dance floor. They can also make you feel very unwell the next day.

BZP – (Benzylpiperazine) and TFMPP (Trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine) are the two most common ingredients in what is known as ‘herbal highs’ or ‘party pills’. Some examples are: Frenzy, Exodus – The Journey, Nemesis, Nemi, Euphoria, Zoom, Blast, Shotgun, Rapture and Charge. Although these pills are called ‘herbal highs’ the active ingredients (BZP and TFMPP) are not herbal they are synthetically produced. Some are even called dietary supplements, implying that they replace something that is missing in your diet - however no normal balanced diet contains these chemicals.

BZP:

BZP has stimulant type properties and affects the dopamine and noradrenaline neurotransmitter systems, resulting in similar effects to those caused by amphetamine (NOT methamphetamine). The effect of taking 100mg of BZP is similar to taking an oral dose of 7.5mg of dexamphetamine. The duration of action for a 100mg dose is 6-8 hours.

TFMPP:

When combined with BZP has a mild hallucinogenic effect similar to ecstasy (MDMA) but does not have the empathic effects of ecstasy.

The different products have different amounts of active ingredient – the typical dose is 70-175mg of BZP. Examples are ‘Frenzy’ per tablet contains 75mg of BZP and ‘Exodus’ contains 50mg TFMPP and BZP – the recommended dose being 2 tablets.

Other ingredients in party pills (e.g. kandi):

Party pills often contain a number of other ingredients. Some of these are “active” and can have an effect on the Central Nervous System.

• Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper) extract – is used for its gastro intestinal stimulatory qualities and anti nausea properties.
• Phenylalanine - plays a key role in the biosynthesis of other amino acids and some neurotransmitters. It also is reported as having mild stimulant qualities and is dangerous to those who suffer from Phenylketonuria (PKU) a hereditary disease which results in people being unable to metabolise phenylalanine.
• Tryptophan (an amino acid) is sold as a nutritional supplement and is used by the body as a precursor for the cellular manufacture of serotonin. Tryptophan is used by some people to help stabilize mood, as a sleep aid, and by some ecstasy and psychedelic users because they are reputed to both increase the effects of substances as well as easing the comedown. There is a possible link between Tryptophan and the Eosinophilia Myalgia Syndrome that affected 1500 U.S people in 1989 who had been taking L-Tryptophan. It was banned by the FDA in the US as a result. Subsequently it has been postulated that the cases concerned were people who took a specific brand and batch of L-Tryptophan, which had become contaminated through the production process. Tryptophan should not be taken if you are taking an SSRI or MAOI type antidepressant as the combination could lead to the development of Serotonin Syndrome, a serious and sometimes fatal condition caused by too much serotonin.
• Tyrosine – An amino acid which may elevate mood. Used by the body as a precursor to produce both Dopamine and Noradrenalin, Tyrosine may have a mild stimulatory effect.

Common effects:

• General stimulation of the brain and nervous system.
• Euphoria and alertness.
• Increased heart rate and increased blood pressure.
• Reduced appetite.
• In high doses – hallucinations, fits/convulsions, slowed breathing.
• Sore throat or nasal passages if snorting powder or crushed tablets.
• Dehydration or water retention problems can occur, especially if used with alcohol.
• If being drug tested it gives a positive result for amphetamines.
• Significant hang over effects that can last up to 4 days.

Harm Reduction:

Harm reduction methods are similar to other stimulants like ecstasy and speed and include:

• No use is the safest choice.
• Be cautious about mixing drugs, as the combined effects become more unpredictable and risks to health are increased.
• Avoid alcohol which can add to dehydration and puts extra strain on the liver.
• If you are going to drink alcohol, make sure you also drink equal amounts of water.
• Eat well before taking the pills. This gives the body the fuel it needs to keep partying and helps minimise the ‘crash’ the next day.
• Try to eat the next day – especially foods like bananas as they can ease the effects. Some people find smoothies easier to consume.
• Stick to the recommended amount and safe use guide on the packaging. Many of the problems people have with party pills is because they have well and truly exceeded the recommended dose.
• Remember the dehydration-water intoxication continuum – see Ecstasy.

As with all stimulants there are more risks associated with taking BZP and TFNPP for people who have: a heart condition, liver damage, anorexia or any mental health problem. Be very cautious with the amount you take because the strength may vary between batches and the difference between an effective dose and an overdose is small.

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED about your own or someone else’s use of party pills, contact CADS on (09) 845-1818 or www.cads.org.nz

Caffeine-based products:

Energy drinks (e.g. Red Bull, Black Stallion, V, etc) are the most popular stimulants, containing vitamins, minerals and electrolytes, which help with fluid absorption and help prevent dehydration. Taurine, the main ingredient may also help remove toxins (e.g. drugs) from the body. Excessive energy drink consumption can still create dehydration but not as quickly as drinking coffee, the most commonly used stimulant of all.

Any drinks containing potassium may increase blood pressure if you’ve taken stimulants (e.g. speed, E or ephedrine). Caffeine may not be safe if combined with other stimulants, as the combination can increase the overall stimulant effect.

Consumption of more than 600mg of caffeine per day for adults can cause insomnia, anxiety, depression and stomach upsets. Some people have a lower sensitivity to caffeine.

Less than 200mg per day is recommended if pregnant. High daily doses of caffeine can become addictive. Withdrawal can cause headaches, irritability, low mood and sleep disturbances.

'Legal Drug Alternatives' last updated December 2006