alpha-PVP Crystals (also known as A-PVP, Alpha-PVP, α-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone or flakka) is a synthetic stimulant drug of the cathinone and pyrovalerone classes. It is chemically similar to other pyrovalerone compounds such as MDPV and cathinone compounds found in the khat plant of eastern Africa. It generally comes in the form of either a crystalline powder or large crystal shards which users can ingest to produce effects which are somewhat similar to that of amphetamine and cocaine.
alpha-PVP Crystals has a short history of use and is subject to much scrutiny by the media, similar to how MDPV and “bath salts” were portrayed in early 2011. It is commonly mass produced in China and sold as a research chemical through online vendors.
alpha-PVP Crystals Physical effects
Spontaneous tactile sensations – The “body high” of α-PVP can be described as a moderate to extreme euphoric tingling sensation that encompasses the entire body. It is capable of becoming overwhelming at higher dosages. This sensation maintains a consistent presence that steadily rises with the onset and hits its limit once the peak has been reached.
Stimulation – In terms of its effects on the user’s physical energy levels, α-PVP can be considered to be extremely stimulating and energetic. This encourages activities such as running, climbing and dancing. The particular style of stimulation which α-PVP presents can be described as forced. This means that at higher dosages it becomes difficult or impossible to keep still as jaw clenching, involuntarily bodily shakes and vibrations become present, resulting in an extreme unsteadiness of the hands and a general lack of motor control.
Vibrating vision – A person’s eyeballs may begin to spontaneously wiggle back and forth in a rapid motion, causing vision to become blurry and temporarily out of focus– a condition known as nystagmus.
Dehydration – Dry mouth and dehydration are a universal experience with α-PVP and are a product of an increased heart rate and extreme motivation to engage in strenuous physical activities. While it is important to avoid becoming dehydrated, especially when out dancing in a hot environment, there is a potential possibility of suffering from water intoxication through over-drinking so it is advised that users simply sip at water and never over drink.
Difficulty urinating – Higher doses of α-PVP result in an overall difficulty when it comes to urination, an effect that is completely temporary and harmless.
Vasoconstriction – α-PVP can be considered very vasoconstricting at higher doses, and is on par with that of amphetamine and methamphetamine.
Tactile enhancement
Increased heart rate
Increased perspiration
Appetite suppression*/-+
Visual acuity suppression
Focus enhancement
Teeth grinding – This component can be considered to be less intense when compared with that of MDMA.
