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The History of Quaaludes Abuse and Addiction

a person sits on a couch speaking to a therapist possibly about quaaludes abuse

Sedatives and sleeping pills can be highly addictive and are often attractive to people who abuse them because of the different types of highs they offer. Quaaludes, a brand of methaqualone, became popular in the U.S. in the 1960s after doctors began prescribing it for anxiety and insomnia. The risk for Quaalude abuse is high, and finding a Quaalude addiction treatment program can be critical in starting a sober future.

If you or a loved one struggles with Quaalude abuse, don’t wait to get help. The team at Northpoint Recovery can help you discover a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs to achieve your goals. Call 208.486.0130 to get started today.

What Are Quaaludes?

Methaqualone is a central nervous system depressant that was popularly used to treat anxiety disorders. Quaaludes are a brand of methaqualone that gained popularity, particularly among young people and those who abuse drugs or alcohol.

Quaaludes became especially popular because of the effects they caused, including:

  • Euphoria
  • Sedation
  • Delirium
  • Increased libido

However, the risk for addiction is extremely high with Quaaludes, and many people develop a Quaalude abuse problem.

When Were Quaaludes Invented?

The active ingredient in Quaaludes, methaqualone, was first synthesized in 1951. In the 1960s, methaqualone was marketed as a safer alternative to barbiturates. It became popular in the U.S. and Europe as a sedative and sleep aid.

By 1973, there were more than 34 million prescriptions written for Quaaludes in the U.S., and they were one of the most prescribed sedatives in America.
However, safety concerns emerged, particularly regarding Quaalude addiction and abuse. In 1982, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classified methaqualone as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification made it illegal to manufacture, possess, or use Quaaludes in the United States. However, the drug still surfaces through illegal dealers.

Following the ban on Quaaludes by the DEA, methaqualone was readily replaced with benzodiazepines like Xanax.

Long-Term Effects of Quaalude Abuse

One of the most significant reasons for the ban on Quaaludes was the severe dangers of the drug. Even when taking the prescribed dose of Quaaludes, people can experience adverse side effects and are at risk of overdose. Abusing Quaaludes, or taking them more often or at higher doses than prescribed, is even more hazardous.

Quaalude abuse can be hazardous for people who use it with alcohol or other drugs. Research indicates that Quaalude abuse has many negative consequences and can cause several long-term effects, including:

  • Addiction
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Hallucinations
  • Difficulty thinking clearly
  • Impaired motor skills
  • Memory loss
  • Seizures
  • Coma

Overdosing on Quaaludes is a major concern for those who abuse the drug. Just one dose of Quaaludes can be deadly, and the risk for overdose increases when Quaaludes are taken with other drugs or alcohol.

Quaalude Abuse and Addiction

Quaaludes are highly addictive, and users can quickly develop a Quaalude abuse problem. Signs of Quaalude abuse often include:

  • Tolerance or needing to take more of the drug to feel the effects
  • Withdrawal symptoms when not taking quaaludes
  • Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from quaalude use
  • Problems at work, school, or home because of quaalude abuse
  • Continued quaalude use despite negative consequences

If you or a loved one is struggling with quaalude abuse or addiction, seeking help from an experienced and compassionate Quaalude addiction treatment program is essential.

Quaalude Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Recovery

At Northpoint Recovery, we offer comprehensive and individualized addiction treatment programs for people with a Quaalude abuse problem. We’re here to support you and your family as you take steps toward long-term recovery from Quaalude abuse.

Call us at 208.486.0130 today to learn more about our Quaalude addiction treatment program or get started on the road to recovery.