Monkey Dust Addiction | Signs, Symptoms and Effects

Monkey dust may sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but the reality can be even more serious in some ways. While media reports of “zombies” and monkey dust face eating have long been discredited, there are very real dangers for anyone who takes it. This highly potent synthetic drug has wreaked havoc in families and communities, leaving behind a trail of devastation for those struggling with monkey dust addiction. While the sensational headlines may grab attention, understanding the true harm of monkey dust abuse and addiction can help you find professional support and treatment.

What is monkey dust?

Monkey dust is the street name for MDPV (3,4 methylenedioxypyrovalerone), a synthetic stimulant that is both cheap and incredibly dangerous. It is a white or yellowish powder that users snort, smoke or swallow to get a powerful jolt of euphoria and energy, similar to cocaine or amphetamines, that can last for up to twelve hours.
However, these initial pleasant effects often come hand-in-hand with some terrifying side effects like extreme paranoia, hallucinations and aggressive outbursts. These side effects are thought to be the result of how the drug affects serotonin levels in your brain and are what sometimes causes the violent and erratic behaviour that monkey dust abuse has become synonymous with.

Monkey dust drug UK history

Its real rise began around 2018, with Stoke-on-Trent becoming one of the most heavily impacted areas. In Stoke alone, hospitals saw over 1,200 admissions related to monkey dust use between 2018 and 2020, with symptoms ranging from extreme paranoia to violent behaviour. Since monkey dust’s emergence, police in Staffordshire reported more than 1,000 incidents involving the drug, with authorities struggling to manage the unpredictable and often violent behaviour of those under its influence.
In the UK, possessing, producing or supplying monkey dust is a criminal offence under current drug laws. While small amounts may result in fines, more severe cases, such as distribution, can lead to prison sentences of up to five years. Due to the impact of monkey dust in Stoke-on-Trent, in 2023, the government sought advice on whether to reclassify monkey dust as a Class A drug. This would lead to even harsher penalties for those involved in its trade now, though a decision has yet to be made.

What is monkey dust addiction?

Monkey dust addiction is when the drug takes control of your life, and you can’t stop even if you want to. Like other forms of drug addiction, it doesn’t start with a single hit, but it can still take root very, very quickly. Here’s a glimpse into how monkey dust addiction often develops:

First-time use

The first time you try monkey dust – maybe out of curiosity or because you want to escape for a little while – the euphoric high can be a pleasurable experience. That initial rush then makes you want to try it again.

Increased use

As you continue using monkey dust, your body adapts and your tolerance increases. This means that you may need to take more of it for the high or escape you seek.

Dependence sets in

Soon, monkey dust abuse will not be about just getting high anymore. As you become dependent on monkey dust, you start needing it to feel “normal” or “functional”. If you stop taking it or even try to cut it down, you enter monkey dust withdrawal with symptoms like cravings, severe anxiety and irritability.

Monkey dust addiction

By the time addiction sets in, monkey dust controls everything and despite knowing the harm it causes, you find yourself completely unable to stop. At this point, monkey dust abuse begins to wreak havoc on your health, relationships and every other part of your life.

How to spot monkey dust addiction signs

The destructive nature of monkey dust addiction means recognising the signs early is crucial. Ask yourself these questions to help identify some of the most common monkey dust addiction symptoms:

Am I using monkey dust more than I ever thought I would?
Do I feel like I need monkey dust even though I know it’s not good for me?
Have I tried to quit monkey dust but always end up using it again?
Do I feel super anxious, moody or sick when I haven’t used monkey dust for a while?
Are my relationships, work or studies starting to fall apart because of it?
Am I ignoring my health or well-being because of my money dust use?
Have I got into legal trouble or done things I regret because of monkey dust?

If you recognise any of these monkey dust addiction signs, you should get professional help before things become any worse.

Why is monkey dust addictive?

Monkey dust addiction does not spring out of nowhere, and there is often much more beneath the surface. From mental health issues to accessibility, here are some of the common reasons people become addicted to monkey dust:

History of substance abuse – Whether it’s you or a close family member, having a background of substance abuse issues makes you more prone to monkey dust abuse and addiction yourself.
Mental health challenges – Struggling with mental health can make monkey dust tempting as a quick fix to cope with the pain. However, this often leads to monkey dust addiction and the worsening of the underlying mental health conditions.
Unresolved trauma – Similarly, monkey dust may offer temporary relief from traumatic experiences with addiction, ultimately exacerbating the underlying pain.
Wide availability – This can be seen in regions like Stoke on Trent, where easy availability has seen monkey dust abuse and addiction soar.

Loneliness – Feeling isolated can drive people toward monkey dust as a way to numb the loneliness and disconnect from reality.

The dangerous side effects of monkey dust addiction

The side effects of monkey dust addiction can be devastating. First of all, the drug is so potent that a life-threatening monkey dust overdose is possible with just a tiny dose of 3mg-5mg.
Over time, monkey dust also wreaks havoc on the heart, kidneys and other vital organs, which can cause serious physical health conditions.
Mentally, monkey dust can push users into extreme paranoia, violent outbursts and hallucinations that feel all too real and cause dangerous behaviour.
But it’s not just your health that’s at risk. Monkey dust addiction can tear through every aspect of life, leaving behind broken relationships and financial ruin. The legal consequences are equally severe as users often find themselves caught up in criminal activities linked to their monkey addiction.
All of these consequences are why it is so important to get professional help if you are exhibiting monkey dust addiction symptoms.

Treatment for monkey dust addiction

Recovering from monkey dust addiction involves a well-structured process, starting with drug detox and progressing through drug rehab and aftercare. At Recovery Lighthouse, we provide this full spectrum of care, giving you a safe space to heal.

Monkey dust detox

The first step is ridding your body of monkey dust. If you have ever tried to quit before, you may know how tough withdrawal symptoms can be, which is why this stage is best done under medical observation.

Monkey dust rehab

This stage is all about rebuilding yourself. Through various therapies, you will uncover the reasons behind your monkey dust addiction and create a new blueprint for how to handle challenges moving forward.

Aftercare

Aftercare is where you turn the lessons from rehab into everyday practice. For the first year after you leave Recovery Lighthouse, we provide weekly outpatient group therapy, which will keep you connected, accountable and able to continue developing the skills and mindset needed to stay monkey dust-free.

Say goodbye to monkey dust and hello to your new life

It is time to leave monkey dust behind and start living again, and Recovery Lighthouse is your ticket to recovery. Our monkey dust addiction treatment leaves no stone unturned and will give you the best possible chance of lasting sobriety. Contact us today and take that step toward a brighter future!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any other terms for monkey dust?

Yes, monkey dust is known by several other names, including “bath salts,” “zombie dust,” and “magic”, and its chemical name, MDPV (3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone). Street names may vary depending on location and dealer, but they all refer to the same dangerous synthetic drug.

Can you die from a monkey dust addiction?

Yes, monkey dust addiction can be deadly. The drug can cause severe physical and mental health problems, including heart attacks, kidney failure, violent behaviour and psychosis. In some cases, taking high doses of monkey dust or combining it with other substances can lead to a fatal monkey dust overdose.

Are spice and monkey dust the same thing?

No, spice and monkey dust are not the same thing. Spice is a synthetic cannabinoid, often referred to as “fake weed,” while monkey dust is a synthetic stimulant. Although both are dangerous and illegal, they affect the brain and body differently.

(Click here to see works cited)

Alcohol and Drug Foundation. “‘Monkey dust’ – busting the myths.” Alcohol and Drug Foundation, 20 January 2019, https://adf.org.au/insights/monkey-dust-busting-the-myths/. Accessed 14 October 2024.
GOV.UK. “Government seeks advice on ‘monkey dust.’” GOV.UK, 11 May 2023, https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-seeks-advice-on-monkey-dust. Accessed 14 October 2024.
Parker, Hayley. “Monkey dust’s wave of devastation heads north up M6 from Stoke-on-Trent.” Stoke on Trent Live, 30 September 2024, https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/monkey-dusts-wave-devastation-heads-9594355. Accessed 14 October 2024.
The Independent. “What is monkey dust? The drug that is making people jump from buildings and eat glass.” The Independent, 11 May 2023, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/what-is-monkey-dust-drug-b2337052.html. Accessed 14 October 2024.
Substance Misuse Resources. “Substance Misuse Resources.” drug and alcohol resources, https://www.substancemisuseresources.co.uk/nps-new-psychoactive-substances/mdpv. Accessed 14 October 2024.