Whoonga

Whoonga is a street drug, primarily found in South Africa, particularly in impoverished communities. It is reportedly highly addictive and destructive. Its exact composition is often debated and can vary significantly, but it is commonly alleged to contain a mixture of heroin, cannabis, and other substances. Some reports suggest it may also include ingredients like rat poison, laundry detergent, or antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), though these claims are often contested and difficult to verify due to the illicit and unregulated nature of its production and distribution.

The use of whoonga is associated with severe health risks, including addiction, respiratory problems, organ damage, and increased susceptibility to infections. The alleged inclusion of ARVs, which are used to treat HIV, is of particular concern as it could contribute to drug resistance and undermine public health efforts to combat the AIDS epidemic. The social impact of whoonga is also significant, contributing to crime, poverty, and family breakdown.

Due to the ambiguity surrounding its precise composition and the lack of controlled studies, accurate information about whoonga remains limited and often based on anecdotal evidence and reports from users and healthcare providers. Law enforcement and public health officials face challenges in addressing the issue, due to the clandestine nature of its production and distribution.