Fad drug use on rise among youth, tobacco still tops list in Mumbai

NAVI MUMBAI: Going by the data provided by the free de-addiction centre at NMMC general hospital, Vashi, using meow meow or MD (mephedrone, which is a synthetic stimulant) and crystal meth is the latest fad among the 17-25 age group in the city.
What is alarming is the centre, run by Anvay Foundation since 2012, has attended to around 10 meow meow addiction cases. The administrators said that 21 youngsters, consuming meth and meow meow, were brought to the centre for treatment.The centre included both these drugs to their list of addiction over two months ago.
“Government brought these drugs under the purview of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act in February. But we have got 21 cases since January,” said Dr Ajit Maghdum, founder, foundation. He added that most of the addicts are school and college students.
The centre operates as an OPD and provides medical and psychological assistance to individuals suffering from various forms of addictions.

“Individuals of various age groups and gender visit the centre on their own will or are even brought by their near ones,” added Maghdum.
Counsellors acknowledge that the response to the treatment varies from person to person. But they agree that regular follow ups and family support are crucial for de-addiction. Anil Lad, who counsels patients at the centre, vouches by this course of treatment. “Addiction is result of peer pressure and curiosity. Family support and regular follows ups are crucial to bail out a patient,” said Lad.
Counsellors added that most of their patients are addicted to tobacco (64.5%) followed by alcohol (30.8%). So far, 2,200 patients are undergoing treatment.