What Is the CAT Drug and how Long Does CAT Stay in Your System?

CAT Drug: What It Is and How Long It Stays

Khat or Methcathinone is a highly addictive and illegal stimulant drug that’s like methamphetamine. It can be snorted, smoked, injected, or ingested orally. CAT is derived from the Catha edulis plant that’s native to Africa. It was first synthesized in the 1920s and used by the Soviet Union as an antidepressant, but never made it to the pharmacy shelves in the United States. Like other stimulants, CAT works by altering the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, producing feelings of euphoria, alertness, and pleasure. Methcathinone is often compared to other stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine because they produce similar symptoms. 

CAT drug abuse is a growing problem. Because it’s an illicit and man-made substance, CAT can be illegally manufactured and distributed across the globe, just like meth. No one is immune to this drug, and those who are exposed to it are at risk of addiction. Once consumed, the effects of khat peak after approximately 15 to 30 minutes. The drug has a half-life of approximately three hours, Khat is an Amphetamine which is a central nervous system stimulant that increases alertness, self-confidence, and concentration while creating a feeling of increased energy and decreased appetite. Amphetamine is available by prescription but is also used illicitly as a recreational drug. It is also sometimes used by athletes as a performance-enhancing drug.

The length of time in which drugs can be detected in urine varies depending on several factors, like:

• The type of drug you used
• How long ago you used the drug
• How long and how frequently you used the drug

How Long Does Amphetamine Stay in Your System?

Urine: Up to five days

Blood: Up to 48 hours

Saliva: Up to five days

Hair: Up to three months

Withdrawal

The severity of withdrawal symptoms ranges from mild to severe, depending on the frequency, amount, and duration of the person’s khat use. The symptoms people experience when withdrawing from khat tend to be relatively mild.⁷ The possible symptoms of khat withdrawal include:

• Mood changes
• Cravings
• Irritability
• Depression

FAQs and Answers

1. What is the CAT drug?
   CAT commonly refers to methcathinone, a powerful stimulant related to cathinone from the Catha edulis plant. It produces euphoria, increased alertness and reduced appetite and is often used illicitly.
2. How is CAT taken?
   CAT can be snorted, smoked, injected or swallowed. The route of use affects how quickly effects begin and how intense they are.
3. How long do the effects of CAT last?
   Effects usually peak within 15 to 30 minutes and then decline. The subjective high may last several hours depending on dose and method of use.
4. How long does CAT stay in your system?
   Detection times vary by test: urine up to five days, blood up to 48 hours, saliva up to five days and hair up to three months. Factors such as frequency of use, dose, metabolism and body composition all influence these windows.
5. What are common withdrawal symptoms from CAT?
   Withdrawal can cause mood changes, strong cravings, irritability and depression. Severity depends on how long and how heavily the drug was used.
6. Can CAT use lead to addiction?
   Yes. Regular use of CAT can lead to physical and psychological dependence similar to other stimulants such as methamphetamine and cocaine.
7. What health risks are associated with CAT?
   Short term risks include elevated heart rate, raised blood pressure, agitation and reduced appetite. Long term or heavy use increases the risk of severe mood disorders, cardiovascular problems and addiction.
8. Where can someone get help for CAT addiction?
   Professional help is available from addiction treatment centres, NHS services and specialist drug counselling services. Seeking medical advice early can improve outcomes and support safe detox and recovery.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

Read more

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Methamorphosis

Crystal Meth, also known by its chemical name Amphetamines is no stranger to humankind. It has been used since 1887 when it was first made in Germany and used for a wide variety of purposes and seen as a performance enhancer. Methamphetamines are a newer more potent and easier to make variant of Amphetamines and were patented in Japan in 1919. In World War 2 Methamphetamine use became synonymous with both the Japanese and German military forces at the time. Japanese Kamikaze pilots used it in high doses before their suicide missions and Nazi soldiers used Methamphetamines to stay awake and to enhance their performance as well. It is commonly known amongst crystal meth manufactures the world over, that Nazi Germany and Japan used Methamphetamines to achieve various military goals and coerce individuals into overcoming various limitations that arise from morality and pain tolerance. Hence this drug is used as an exploitative tool amongst many criminal organizations today to achieve these same goals. After World War 2 supply stores of Methamphetamines became accessible to the public in Japan and caused a widespread Methamphetamine pandemic.

In the 1950s, Methamphetamines became a scheduled substance and was prescribed for a variety of ailments from dietary issues to depression. It was easily available and thus was used recreationally by college students, truck drivers and athletes, anyone looking to temporarily enhance their performance. This is another instance in which the abuse of this drug began to escalate and spread among yet another community. This worsened in the 1960s, Methamphetamines was predominantly injected at this time and due to the stigma around that its use became even more taboo.

In 1970, Methamphetamine use became illegal the US and various other countries followed. Motorcycle gangs in the US then became the major controllers, distributors and producers of this substance and its use amongst lower income communities became more popular.

In the 1990s Methamphetamines being illegal in most countries began to be a high selling product for many cartels across the world. Stemming from large scale Mexican cartel run factories in California to smaller productions happening in local apartments. Soon it began to spread across the world through the various criminal organizations eventually entering South Africa.

In South Africa Methamphetamine production, distribution and sale is regulated and controlled purely by criminal organizations. South Africa is home to one of the largest Methamphetamine production and distribution networks in Southern Africa. The Nigerians are often known as the major producers of this substance, and they work with various other cartels in the country to distribute and sell it. Methamphetamine based substances are still in circulation and used medically to help address ailments such as attention deficit disorder and have yet to be phased out entirely. Having displaced cannabis in many communities this substance’s use has been spreading rapidly across Africa. Originally brought into the continent through Afghanistan’s illicit trade channels, it’s been in circulation in South Africa since trade restriction imposed during the Apartheid regime were lifted opening up the market to opportunistic illicit traders, this was how Crystal Meth Use began in South Africa. The first Methamphetamine labs were seized in 1998 after it had already become a major problem in many communities in the Western Cape. Tick being used as the popular name of this drug.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

Read more

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Know when to hold them, know when to fold them and know when to walk away know when to run. (Kenny Rogers)

Excessive Gambling has been recognised as a definable behavioural disorder and is also delineated in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition which outlines the criteria for diagnosis as a gambling addiction.

While this is a very clinical definition it is helpful to consider.

Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behaviour leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting four (or more) of the following in a 12­month period:

a. Needs to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired excitement.

b. Is restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.

c. Has made repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.

d. Is often preoccupied with gambling (e.g., having persistent thoughts of reliving past gambling

experiences, handicapping or planning the next venture, thinking of ways to get money with

which to gamble).

e. Often gambles when feeling distressed (e.g., helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed).

f. After losing money gambling, often returns another day to get even (“chasing” one’s losses).

g. Lies to conceal the extent of involvement with gambling.

h. Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity

because of gambling.

i. Relies on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.

Compulsive gambling is a serious condition that can destroy lives. Although treating compulsive gambling can be challenging, many people who struggle with compulsive gambling have found help through professional treatment mostly in the inpatient gambling rehab setting.

“Unlike most casual gamblers who stop when losing or set a loss limit, people with a compulsive gambling problem are compelled to keep playing to recover their money — a pattern that becomes increasingly destructive over time”.

As a result of this many gambling rehabs have introduced programmes to deal with this process addiction using similar approaches to handling any other addiction.

What is a gambling disorder?

A “compulsive, or pathological, problem gambler” are terms that have been used to describe and individual who is unable to manage or stop his or her impulse and action in terms of gambling. Gambling disorders can lead to serious emotional, financial, relationship and other social consequences if there is no intervention to arrest the problem.

It is apparent that people who suffer severely from the disorder are unable to stop by using their usual coping mechanisms and need the help of a certified and registered gambling rehab.

How do you know that you may have a problem with gambling disorder?

According to specialists in this area from the Mayo Clinic if the following apply to you, you could be suffering from a gambling disorder.

Compulsive gambling addiction is not related to morality or values issues it is fraught with complex motivations and often related to trauma of some sort.  

It is also very much a systemic family disorder, or its consequences almost always impact the family system of the gambler.

Compulsive gambling can have many consequences on financial resources and interpersonal relationships. Often the gambler is rejected by the people that he or she has hurt as a result of the behaviour and it becomes increasingly difficult for the person to find the support, they need in order recover in the family context.

 Hence the need for a focussed gambling rehabilitation.

Gambling addiction requires a specialised customised and holistic approach as the issues are specific and the risks of later relapse are just as high as any other form of addiction.

Bearing this in mind there is a distinct focus on family dynamics during the treatment process.

Gambling can stimulate the brain’s reward system much like drugs or alcohol can and this turns into addiction. If you have a problem with compulsive gambling, you may continually want to persist with the behaviour regardless of the outcome.  Gambler often take bets that lead to losses, hide their behaviour, deplete savings, accumulate debt, or even resort to theft or fraud to support your addiction.

It is often accompanied by cross addiction such as Alcohol Addiction, Drug addiction or Sex addiction.

 The treatment modalities

• Behaviour therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy may be helpful in the treatment of this disorder. “Cognitive behavioural therapy focuses on identifying unhealthy, irrational and negative beliefs and replacing them with healthy, positive ones.”
• Medications. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers may help problems that often go along with compulsive gambling — such as depression, OCD or ADHD.
• Self-help groups. Some people find that talking with others who have a gambling problem may be a helpful part of treatment. Self-help groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous and other resources.
• Lastly and in many cases the most appropriate is a 12-step oriented in house treatment process.

Treatment approach often depends on the severity of the disorder.

 Crossroads Recovery Centre has specialist staff and programmes that help to deal with these complex issues.

Crossroad’s process is a 12-step programme which is specifically focused on the problem of gambling.

Family support is also an integral part of the treatment and Crossroads runs a family support group every second week to help the family members and loved ones going through the process.

Treatment for compulsive gambling may involve an outpatient program, inpatient program in a gambling rehab depending on the severity needs and resources. Treatment for substance abuse, depression, anxiety or any other mental health disorder may be part of your treatment plan for compulsive gambling.

If you or a loved one or friend is experiencing problems with a gambling addiction, please CALL Crossroads Recovery Centre

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

Read more

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How Do I Know If I Need Inpatient Rehab for Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse is an intricate issue that plagues countless individuals across South Africa, extending its grasp into the vibrant cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria. At Crossroads Recovery Centres, we wholeheartedly comprehend the exceptional challenges faced by those grappling with addiction. We stand as a beacon of hope, offering a comprehensive range of addiction recovery solutions precisely tailored to the individualised needs of our patients.

Understanding the Multifaceted Nature of Addiction

Addiction is an intricate web that can ensnare its victims in various forms, from alcohol abuse to drug dependencies, leaving behind a trail of devastation. There is a subset of individuals who find themselves at a heightened risk of enduring the harrowing throes of drug or alcohol withdrawal. Others have previously experienced relapses or have undertaken less intensive treatments, only to find their sobriety slip away. For these individuals, inpatient addiction treatment proves to be a lifeline.

A Holistic Approach to Recovery from Substance Abuse

It is paramount to acknowledge that addiction often coexists with concurrent mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Addressing these intertwined issues concurrently during addiction treatment is pivotal. At Crossroads Recovery Centres, our approach is all-encompassing, recognizing the intricate interplay between substance abuse and mental well-being. This ensures that individuals not only combat addiction but also receive the essential care needed for holistic recovery.

Choosing the Right Path to Recovery: Inpatient or Outpatient?

The choice between inpatient and outpatient rehab hinges significantly on your home environment. If you find yourself in a supportive and nurturing setting that prioritises your recovery, outpatient treatment can be a viable option. However, for those grappling with a lack of this crucial support system, our residential treatment programmes, meticulously designed and implemented at Crossroads, pave the most effective path to recovery.

Recognizing the Telltale Signs of Addiction

Early intervention is often the key to a successful recovery journey. Substance abuse casts a wide shadow, leading to detrimental consequences across numerous facets of life: social, emotional, financial, legal, physical health, employment, family, and education. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of addiction can be the catalyst for prompt intervention, significantly enhancing the prospects of successful recovery.

Substance Abuse: Behavioural and Physical Indicators

The behavioural signs of addiction are diverse, encompassing patterns such as intoxication, substance use at inappropriate times, absenteeism from work or school, fractured relationships, declining academic or professional performance, secretive behaviour, mood swings, explosive temper outbursts, shifts in eating and sleeping habits, and changes in social circles.

Physical manifestations of addiction can manifest as abrupt weight fluctuations, an unsteady gait, unusual sleep patterns, unexplained bruises or marks, bloodshot or enlarged eyes, perspiring palms, facial changes, hyperactivity, persistent cough or runny nose, visible needle marks, bouts of nausea or vomiting, profuse sweating, nosebleeds, skin rashes, peculiar odours, lack of energy, and a notable decline in personal appearance and hygiene.

Seeking Help and a Path to Recovery

If you or someone you know is grappling with addiction, the importance of reaching out for help cannot be overstated. Crossroads Recovery Centres stands as a beacon of hope for individuals in Johannesburg and Pretoria entrapped in the relentless cycle of substance abuse. Our dedicated team of professionals is unwavering in their commitment to guiding individuals towards a life of sobriety and lasting recovery. With our support, the path to healing and transformation awaits.

Are you or a loved one struggling with addiction in Johannesburg?

It’s time to take that courageous step towards healing and recovery. Crossroads Recovery Centre in Johannesburg is here to provide you with the support, care, and expert guidance you need to overcome addiction. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to helping you break free from the cycle of substance abuse and embark on a journey to lasting recovery. Contact us today to start your path to sobriety. Your brighter tomorrow begins at Crossroads in Johannesburg.

If you’re battling addiction in Pretoria, you don’t have to face it alone

Reach out to Crossroads Recovery Centre in Pretoria and start your journey to recovery today. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to provide you with personalised care and support. Don’t let addiction hold you back any longer; it’s time to reclaim your life. Contact us now and take the first step towards lasting sobriety. Your path to healing and renewal starts at Crossroads in Pretoria.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

Read more

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