Ep 3. X-Rated High

Drugs, Inc. is a documentary series that explores the inner workings of the global illegal drug trade. The focus of season 7 episode 3, titled "X-Rated High," is the rise of synthetic drugs like flakka and "bath salts."

The episode takes viewers on a tour of a "spice" factory in China, where unscrupulous chemists create designer drugs that mimic the effects of cannabis and other illicit substances. These drugs are then packaged and shipped around the world, often with misleading labels or disguised as other products.

The show also delves into the dark side of synthetic drugs, highlighting the devastating effects they can have on users. Interviews with former addicts and their families reveal the toll that these dangerous substances can take on both individuals and communities.

One pivotal scene in the episode focuses on a young woman who had a severe reaction to a synthetic drug called "N-Bomb." She was rushed to the hospital in a state of extreme agitation and paranoia, with her temperature soaring over 105 degrees. The doctors were forced to sedate her and put her on life support in order to save her life.

Through interviews with law enforcement officials and drug counselors, the episode shines a light on the challenges of combating the spread of synthetic drugs. With ever-changing formulas and the ability to be easily ordered online, these substances can be difficult to track and regulate.

The episode also touches on the role of social media in the drug trade, with some dealers using online platforms to advertise their wares and connect with customers. One young man interviewed for the show boasts about the profits he's made selling drugs like flakka and "Molly" (a form of MDMA) through Instagram.

Overall, "X-Rated High" provides a sobering look at the dangerous world of synthetic drugs and the impact they can have on individuals, families, and communities. Though the episode offers no easy solutions, it highlights the need for education, prevention, and treatment in order to combat the spread of these deadly substances.