Captagon's Role in Conflict and Misrepresentation in Media Explored

The drug Captagon has gained notoriety in the media, particularly following the Paris attacks, where it was reportedly used by terrorists. However, much of the information surrounding Captagon is sensationalized and inaccurate, leading to misconceptions about its effects and origins. Often labeled as 'the jihadist drug,' Captagon's true nature and history are far more complex

Originally developed in 1962 by the German pharmaceutical company Degussa AG, Captagon's active ingredient was fenetylline. It was initially used to treat conditions like narcolepsy and ADHD. However, due to its psychoactive properties, fenetylline was classified as a controlled substance by the FDA in 1981 and subsequently banned internationally in 1986. This prohibition led to the rise of counterfeit Captagon tablets, which are now predominantly composed of amphetamine and other substances

The transformation of Captagon from a legitimate pharmaceutical to a black-market stimulant highlights the demand in the Middle East, where it was popular among affluent groups. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has reported that the pills sold as Captagon often contain amphetamine, methamphetamine, and caffeine, rather than fenetylline. This shift underscores the challenges in controlling synthetic drug production and distribution

Studies have confirmed the absence of fenetylline in modern Captagon tablets. Research conducted by Mahmoud A. Alabdalla in Jordan and Marina Nevescanin in Serbia revealed that these pills are mainly composed of amphetamine and caffeine, with varying impurities. This evidence contradicts the media portrayal of Captagon as a unique and potent drug, instead categorizing it alongside other common stimulants

The media depiction of Captagon as a superhuman enabler, particularly in conflict zones, is largely based on anecdotal claims from combatants. These narratives, often from members of the so-called Islamic State, suggest that Captagon provides fearlessness and endurance. However, such claims should be met with skepticism, as the actual physiological effects of the drug are unlikely to match these exaggerated accounts

Historically, the use of amphetamines in military contexts is not unprecedented. Countries like the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom have provided their troops with stimulants to enhance performance and reduce fatigue during wars. This practice highlights the strategic rather than mythical benefits of such drugs, contrasting with the sensationalized media stories about Captagon

The initial reports linking Captagon to the Paris attacks stemmed from the discovery of syringes in a hotel room used by the attackers. However, it remains uncertain what substances, if any, were actually involved. This case exemplifies the media's tendency to leap to conclusions without definitive evidence, perpetuating myths rather than facts about drugs like Captagon