Yaba: A killer of young generation

Yaba tablets which are a combination of methamphetamine and caffeine have become very popular in Bangladesh over the past decade. The numbers regarding the yaba users reported is far less than the actual users.

The pills, usually consumed orally or inhaled after being melted, elevate mood and increases alertness, concentration and energy. That is why it is extremely popular among the youth, especially college and university students who consume it prior to their examinations.

Yaba was originally manufactured by the Nazis to help keep their troops awake for days. The drug usually comes in pill form (often red/orange, sometimes green) and with its potent mix of visuals and intense highs. The drug is claimed to create an intense hallucinogenic effect and can keep users awake for days, although some users have reported that the visuals come as a result of sleep deprivation after binge sessions.

Regular use of the drug has been linked to lung and kidney disorders, hallucinations and paranoia. A frequent hallucination is 'speed bugs' or 'crank bugs' where users believe that bugs are crawling under their skin and go loopy trying to get them out. Those coming off the drug are also susceptible to severe depression and suicidal urges. Now is the peak time to concentrate in this issue to save our young generation from this deadly addiction. Let us fight together against Yaba and free our children from this curse.

The writer is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Z H Sikder Women's Medical College and Hospital, Dhaka.