What is ‘monkey mud’ and why the ‘zombie’ drug is inflicting chaos within the UK

Monkey dust is a stimulant drug that has been making headlines around the UK in recent years as the fallout from its use increases – but what exactly is it, and what are its risks?

The UK is grappling with a rising epidemic of the notorious synthetic drug dubbed “monkey dust”.

This stimulant, a bargain compared to other highs, delivers an intense burst of energy and euphoria similar to that of cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines. Known by various names including “magic”, “bath salts” and “zombie dust”, its low cost and potent, enduring effects make it a go-to for budget-conscious thrill-seekers. Yet, the 12-hour trip comes at a price, as users can experience hallucinations, paranoia, erratic behaviour, and a marked spike in aggression and violence.

Monkey dust, or MDPV (Methylenedioxypyrovalerone), falls under the synthetic cathinones category, referred to as “bath salts”.

Originally concocted for research, it’s infamous for its energising and mind-altering properties.

It appears as a white or off-white powder that can be snorted, ingested in paper, smoked, or injected.

Easily procured on the black market, including shady online outlets, it attracts a broad spectrum of individuals, from hardened drug aficionados to first-time experimenters.

And like many substances of its kind, there’s a risk of addiction.

For some individuals grappling with substance abuse or mental health issues, the potent effects of monkey dust drugs may seem like a swift and effective solution to their struggles.

Conversely, casual users might find themselves hooked after repeatedly indulging in the drug for its euphoric effects, eventually realising they’re unable to quit. Either way, monkey dust addiction can rapidly escalate as users build a tolerance, leading them to consume increasingly larger doses to attain the same high.

And with that comes the risk of fatal overdose, which is alarmingly high, with death potentially resulting from as little as 3mg-5mg. Tragically, there have been several monkey dust-related deaths in the UK.

The drug can trigger serious health complications and its unpredictable effects can have deadly outcomes.

Additional concerns include heart conditions and kidney damage, extreme paranoia and restlessness, and in certain instances it has been known to provoke hallucinations and psychosis.

Just a few years of usage can transform users into zombie-like wanderers, with this terrifying drug, first spotted in the US, now making its presence felt in the UK.

In a widely reported outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent, locals described users stumbling around the streets, retching.

Alongside this, numerous crimes have reportedly been linked to its use including acts of violence, destruction and arson.

Since the first reports of its use, monkey dust usage has been on a steady rise. In light of this, both political figures and mental health experts have urged for the drug to be reclassified from Class B to Class A, in an effort to more accurately reflect its perilous nature.