captagonz

Captagon, also known by its generic name fenethylline, is a synthetic stimulant drug. It was originally developed in the 1960s by the German pharmaceutical company Degussa AG and was prescribed to treat conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and depression. Its therapeutic use was widespread in the 1970s and 1980s.

However, concerns about its potential for abuse and addiction led to its classification as a controlled substance in many countries, including its prohibition in the United States in 1981 and in most other nations by the mid-1980s. Despite its legal status, illicit production and distribution of Captagon have persisted.

The drug is chemically a prodrug, meaning it is metabolized in the body into amphetamine and theophylline. This dual action contributes to its stimulant effects, which include increased alertness, energy, and euphoria, alongside a reduction in fatigue. These effects have unfortunately led to its widespread use in conflict zones, particularly in the Middle East, where it is reportedly used by combatants to enhance endurance and reduce fear.

The illicit Captagon trade has become a significant source of funding for various armed groups and criminal organizations. International efforts are underway to disrupt its production and trafficking networks, but its production continues to be a persistent challenge for global law enforcement and public health initiatives. The exact composition of illicit Captagon tablets can vary, and they often contain other amphetamine-type stimulants or adulterants.