Extreme Flesh Eating Russian Drug Krokodil Reaches US

Rotting flesh, dissolving muscles, reptile-like skin and users usually die within 2 to 3 years. This Russian drug has reached America's shores and has doctors scared. WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT INSIDE

The Russian drug Desomorphine, better known as Krokodil or the "crocodile drug," is the cheaper version of heroin. The concoction uses codeine, then mixes it with paint thinner, gasoline, hydrochloric acid and phosphorus found on the red tips of matches. The drug is easier to make, cheaper, can be produced faster, has a better high and it lasts longer.

In Arizona, the Banner Control Center encountered the drug when two drug users were taken to the emergency room with rotting flesh hanging off their body, showing bone and whatever skin that was left had a reptilian like quality. As far as the Poison Control Center knows, this is the first cases of the drug in the United States. And they are frightened that this drug will gain the same popularity that it has in Russia.

The drug's popularity has blown up in Russia, with 2.5 million users registering as addicts and seeking treatment. The skin gets eaten away starting at the injection site, usually between the toes, arms and legs. Blood vessels begin bursting with continued use and the tissues begin dying. Gangrene also becomes an issue then, with limbs and body parts needing amputation after.