The following is an entry from Addiction & Prevention Journal, a bi-monthly publication dedicated to exploring the habits that lead to drug addiction and their prevention. [Article originally published three months ago.]

APHROSIA—THE ACCELERATED APHRODISIAC

Aphrosia is distributed as a liquid-filled pill, typically available in various colors. The capsule is intended to be bitten, releasing the liquid directly onto the user’s tongue (the soft shell instantly dissolves after being ruptured). Alternatively, the pill can be swallowed, which slightly delays the effect of the drug.

Aphrosia induces extreme sexual desire, heightened physical sensitivity, an elevated sense of pleasure, and intensified orgasms.

Shortly after taking the drug, most users will begin to feel an almost “uncontrollable” sense of arousal, leading to what some have described as “insatiable cravings,” “increased urges,” and a sudden “lack of inhibitions.” The user’s body temperature will rise dramatically, often resulting in perspiration, tingling sensations, and a shortness of breath. Male users have reported a strong erection almost immediately after taking the drug. The initial response in females takes around 10-15 minutes longer, at which time many have noted experiencing hardened nipples, vaginal sensations and wetness. Users have claimed that all bodily sensations, physical stimulation, and sexual acts were significantly more intense and pleasurable while under the influence of Aphrosia.

In recent years, Aphrosia has become popular with users in the 18-27 age range—particularly those on college campuses, where it has gained the reputation as an “accelerated aphrodisiac.”

Classified as an illegal substance, Aphrosia has several negative side-effects. Some users have reported increased appetite, while others experienced tiredness, or felt mild-to-severe nausea. Temporary lightheadedness is common, along with blurred vision and headaches. In extreme cases, heart palpitations may occur, high-blood pressure, and a possible risk of heart attack and/or stroke. Dosage amount, frequency of use, and underlying health issues may play factors in certain individual’s side-effects.

Possible side-effects from long-term usage include, but are not limited to, mood swings, behavioral disorders, vision changes, increased sensitivity to light, chronic dizziness, trouble breathing, and heart damage. The effectiveness of Aphrosia also diminishes with long-term use.

In comparison to high-risk “pleasure drugs” such as Euphoria, Aphrosia is classified as a lower risk substance. However, Aphrosia is still considered a gateway drug that could lead users to experiment with more harmful and dangerous substances.

Danger Zone One. Story by Midnight. Art by Salaiix.