Images of drug users in popular films and TV shows often look far from reality. Dark circles under the eyes, bloodshot lids, a gaunt frame — these cues come from real life, yet they don’t tell the full story. In conversations at a clinic, the chief physician, Dr. Isaeva, was told by psychiatrist-narcologist Daniil Petrov that modern substance use tells a different tale than the one shown on screen.
“When it comes to today’s synthetic stimulants, sometimes called salt drugs, there isn’t a single familiar picture for parents who worry about teens. The old view linked to heroin or other opiates isn’t accurate here. For many users, the pattern unfolds quickly, and by the second encounter, changes in cognition and behavior can already appear,” Petrov explained. “A young person who seemed mentally sharp can slip into memory lapses, reduced attention, and slowed thinking as a result of these substances.”
Detecting a salt-drug user in the early stages is often challenging. Frequent use, sometimes several times a week, can mask the initial signs. The initial effects mainly disrupt thinking and behavior, and early physical signs may be subtle, growing clearer as time passes.
Petrov noted that the distinctive behavior of a modern drug user includes heightened energy, restless movement, and a swirl of strong emotions that do not fit the moment. When intense itching emerges, constant scratching joins restless, erratic movements. A minor skin lesion caused by the body’s reaction to toxins can rapidly escalate into a larger sore from continuous picking and irritation.
Alongside these behavioral signals, rapid weight loss is common. Within a few months, a user can shed 10–20 kilograms. The skin may appear pale or gray, nails can become brittle, and hair may fall out as minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium are depleted by the body’s metabolism. These physical effects typically worsen with continued use.
Over time, jaw clenching and teeth grinding—bruxism—often intensify. The enamel can erode, leaving teeth exposed and painful. While some health issues may improve with abstinence, bruxism can persist as a central neurological symptom, making it possible to identify a long-term user by the jaw’s unusual movements even when other signs fade.
In contemporary youth culture, the hard realities of salt-drug use are rarely discussed in everyday life, which makes awareness and early detection crucial for prevention and treatment. The changing face of drug use requires ongoing education for families and communities so young people can seek help before lasting damage occurs. The message is clear: modern stimulant use carries risks that extend beyond temporary highs, affecting cognition, physical health, and overall life quality. When signs appear, seeking professional assessment and support is essential for safety and recovery. The insights shared by clinicians illuminate the path from curiosity to informed action and responsible care. Referrals and support networks exist for those ready to address substance use with professional guidance. .