SAEDNEWS: Once developed as a hopeful remedy for mental disorders, Captagon has evolved into a powerful and illicit stimulant that now threatens public health and security—especially in conflict zones of the Middle East.
According to SAEDNEWS, With increasing reports of its production near Iran’s borders, concerns are rising that this highly addictive substance could soon infiltrate the Iranian drug market.
Captagon was first introduced in the early 1960s as a medical alternative to amphetamines. It was prescribed to treat conditions like narcolepsy, depression, and ADHD. However, by the early 1980s, its addictive properties became evident, and the U.S. FDA banned its use in 1981, concluding that its risks far outweighed its benefits.
Captagon works by overstimulating the central nervous system, altering levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This results in intense bursts of energy, reduced need for sleep, inflated confidence, and sometimes aggressive behavior. It is this psychological profile that has made the drug especially appealing in warzones.
In conflict regions like Syria and Iraq, Captagon is widely used by militant groups, notably ISIS, to enhance combat endurance and numb fear—earning it the nickname “chemical courage.” Massive seizures of the drug, such as Iraq's 2022 bust of over six million pills, show the scale of the problem. While Syria is a major producer, Saudi Arabia has been identified as a key consumer.
Captagon use can cause serious health issues: high blood pressure, heart complications, weight loss, digestive problems, and muscle cramps. Mentally, it may lead to paranoia, psychosis, depression, and personality disorders. Its addictive nature makes treatment particularly challenging.
Overcoming Captagon addiction requires a multi-pronged approach—detox, psychological therapy, and strong social support. Every patient needs a tailored treatment plan, as withdrawal can be complicated by co-occurring mental health conditions.
Captagon is more than just a drug—it represents the dark misuse of science for violent and destructive ends. Once a potential medical breakthrough, it is now a symbol of abuse, fueling wars and damaging lives. Combating its spread demands global cooperation, public education, and a deep understanding of its broader social impact.
