Catnip Cocktail - The Next Drug Epidemic

As the United States gears up to fight the opioid epidemic, another drug is emerging as a serious health threat. Over the past year, there have been numerous reports of humans abusing “Catnip Cocktail.” Many of these reports have been in the state of New Jersey, but some have been as far away as Nebraska.

An internet search identified the first publicly documented report of catnip cocktail abuse. In 2015, a 27-year-old Omaha, Nebraska man, Tim Koenig, was found slumped over the wheel of his car. Officers observed Mr. Keonig mumbling his speech, having difficulty standing on his own and with bloodshot eyes. A field sobriety test demonstrated signs of impairment and officers found catnip cocktail drinks in his car. Koenig allegedly stated he recently drank the cocktail with unknown medications. (source: https://www.wowt.com/home/headlines/Driver-Passes-Out-on-Catnip-Cocktail-298019961.html)

More recently, a North Jersey resident was found to be driving erratically. Fairfield New Jersey police officers identified the driver as Richard Mazza, who police said was confused, unaware of his surroundings and unable to answer simple questions. Mazza was found to be driving while impaired and placed under arrest. Further investigation revealed eight bottles of catnip cocktail in his vehicle. According to police, Mazza’s behavior was considered so bizarre that he was transported to a local hospital. (source: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/westfield/articles/fairfield-police-warn-of-increase-in-misuse-of-catnip-cocktail-96fcfb2c-8357-4733-8251-31c2af4e36e5)

Catnip cocktail is being sold online as a mood enhancer for dogs and cats. The supplement claims to relieve pain and anxiety in animals. Retailers selling this concoction state that it is entirely harmless, yet, not approved for human consumption. The ingredient list includes the following compounds: beta alanine, tyrosine, agmatine sulfate, caffeine anhydrous, hordenine HCL, dendrobium extract, 1-4 BDO, rauwolfia vomitoria extract, and yohimbine extract. 

When given to animals, instructions advise oral administration after mixing with water. Despite being "entirely" harmless, the instructions also advise to monitor for allergic reactions and discontinue use if allergic reactions are observed.

According to the website:

"If this product is ingested by humans, accidentally, or otherwise, the manufacturer assumes no responsibility nor liability for any harm which may occur as a result from that use."

Humans consumption is typically by oral ingestion; however, there has been a report of abuse through inhalation. Reports to date have been in the news media and online platforms (such as facebook). A recent search of the medical literature has not been unable to identify any information related to "catnip cocktail." Assuming the ingredient list provided by the website is correct, Yohimbine is the substance most likely responsible for causing psychotic symptoms in humans. Yohimbine has a history of abuse as an aphrodisiac and hallucinogen, and has been responsible for two reported accidental deaths in California. (source: https://academic.oup.com/jat/article/37/8/611/776068).

Catnip cocktail abuse remains in its infancy. Now is the time to raise awareness and prevent it from becoming the next in a series of drug abuse epidemics. Here are a few steps you can take to help:

1. Remain Vigilant: If you see family or friends with this product then it’s time to start a discussion and see how you can help. It’s important to share this information with friends and family who have loved ones suffering from drug abuse. 
2. Law Enforcement Awareness: Law enforcement personnel should become familiar with Catnip Cocktail and be able to recognize it's dangers. Signs and symptoms of abuse are similar to GHB and and other hallucinogenics. Please share this information with your law enforcement colleagues.
3. Keep Your Pets Safe: If you have a pet, do not buy this product. It is not approved by the FDA. There is potential that it can cause serious harm to the health of your animal. Share this information with all of your pet-loving friends.
4. Awareness for the Healthcare Provider: Medical professionals (first responders, EMTs, nurses, physicians, veterinarians, etc) should familiarize themselves with signs and symptoms of this product. If you encounter a patient who has abused this product, keep them safe, provide supportive care and contact the poison control center for additional recommendations. Again, share this information with your medical professional colleagues.
5. Advocacy: If you are a public advocate or politician, we need policy change now. First, let’s get this compound classified as a controlled dangerous substance (CDS). Next we need policy to educate and raise awareness. Finally, we need resources to treat and prevent substance abuse/addiction in general.
6. Legal Enforcement: If you are an employee of the FDA, we need you to do your part in policing companies promoting Catnip Cocktail as a remedy for animal pain and animal anxiety. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are being used illegally. Please enforce illegal promotion of this product, for the safety of our pets and our fellow humans. 

#EmergencyMedicine #PoisonControl #FDA #CatnipCocktail #LawEnforcement #OpiodEpidemic #cats #dogs #SubstanceAbuse