Youth|Other Drugs| Party Pills

What are party pills?

Party pills are psychoactive substances that have recently been introduced to the recreational drug scene.

Party pills are designed to mimic the effects of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine (speed, P), MDMA (ecstasy) and LSD (acid, trips), although without the addictive qualities and known negative health risks of illegal drugs.

Little is known about the long-term effects of party pill substances, although there are research projects currently underway in New Zealand to analyse the long-term effects.

From 1 April 2008, BZP becomes a Class C1 controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act. This makes it illegal to make, sell, import, export, possess or use. Also from this date, a six-month amnesty exists for possession for personal use less than 5 grams or 100 flakes, tablets, capsules, or other drug forms each containing some quantity of the drug.

Common effects

• euphoria, energy, alertness for up to six hours
• aural and visual senses enhanced 
• stimulation of brain and central nervous system 
• skin tingling 
• hallucinations (in larger doses)

Short-term effects

Although there does not appear to be evidence that these drugs pose an overdose risk, taking more than the maximum dosage (normally listed on the packaging) can lead to very unpleasant feelings. Short-term effects include:

• loss of appetite
• sleep deprivation, which could lead to psychotic episodes 
• dehydration 
• fatigue, lack of energy 
• feelings of being "strung-out" and stressed, 
• moodiness and lack of emotional control 
• headaches, which can be severe especially when party pills are combined with alcohol 
• nausea 
• convulsions 
• hallucinations, 
• rapid heart rate.

Long-term effects

Because these substances are relatively new to recreational use, there is very little research into the long-term effects of BZP, TFMPP and other party pills.

However, because you have more energy and stay awake for longer; you party harder, dance more and drink more; and it is the extra alcohol that may cause some problems for you.