A growing trend among college students involves the misuse of “honey packets” marketed as sexual enhancers, creating significant health risks.
These products, often labeled as natural supplements, frequently contain undisclosed pharmaceutical substances such as sildenafil and tadalafil, the active ingredients in Viagra and Cialis, respectively. For prehospital clinicians, recognizing and managing the complications associated with these unregulated products is critical.1
Unregulated Products and Misleading Marketing
Unlike FDA-regulated medications, these honey packets are widely available in convenience stores, gas stations and online marketplaces. Marketed under the guise of being “natural,” they may give users a false sense of safety.
Investigations, however, have revealed that these products often contain potent pharmaceuticals without proper labeling, leaving users unaware of the associated risks.2
Health Risks of Honey Packets
The misuse of honey packets becomes especially dangerous when combined with alcohol or other substances—a common practice among college students. Potential adverse effects include:
– Severe Hypotension: Sudden drops in blood pressure can lead to loss of consciousness and organ injury.
– Syncope and Dizziness: Symptoms that may result in physical injuries from falls or accidents.
– Cardiovascular Complications: Life-threatening events such as arrhythmias or myocardial infarction.
– Drug Interactions: Harmful reactions with medications like nitrates used for heart conditions.
Undiagnosed health conditions, such as heart disease, can exacerbate these risks, leading to outcomes that may be fatal without timely intervention.
Key Considerations for Prehospital Clinicians
Prehospital clinicians are often the first to encounter patients suffering from the misuse of these products. Recognizing the signs and responding effectively is essential.
1. Thorough History-Taking
Patients may be reluctant to admit using sexual enhancement supplements. Clinicians should create a nonjudgmental environment and specifically inquire about recent use of over-the-counter supplements or unregulated products.
2. Close Monitoring of Vital Signs
Repeated assessment of blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation can help identify cardiovascular instability. Changes in these parameters during transport may indicate a need for further intervention. Getting an EKG in these young patients is essential to identify any arrhythmias or signs of cardiac ischemia.
3. Rapid Intervention and Management
For patients presenting with severe hypotension or other cardiovascular symptoms:
– Administer fluid resuscitation promptly.
– For persistent hypotension, consider initiating vasopressors like epinephrine under medical direction.
– Provide detailed documentation about suspected causes and prehospital treatments to guide emergency department care.
4. Patient and Family Education
Following the acute management of these cases, clinicians should educate patients and families about the risks associated with unregulated supplements. This step is essential in preventing repeat incidents.3
The Role of Community Awareness
Public education is vital in combating this emerging public health issue. Prehospital clinicians, emergency physicians, and public health officials can collaborate to create targeted campaigns. These initiatives should focus on:
– Educating college students about the dangers of these products.
– Highlighting the risks of using unregulated supplements marketed as natural or safe.
– Encouraging informed decision-making and promoting awareness of the potential consequences.
A Call to Action
As honey packet misuse becomes more widespread, the role of prehospital clinicians is crucial. Early recognition and management of complications can save lives, while community outreach can help reduce the prevalence of these incidents.
By staying informed, vigilant, and proactive, clinicians can address this challenge head-on. Even seemingly innocuous products like honey packets can carry serious risks, underscoring the importance of education and preparedness in prehospital care.
References
1. Lee BY. Beware Of New ‘Honey Packet’ Sex Trend Among College Students. Forbes. Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2024/11/29/beware-of-new-honey-packet-sex-trend-among-college-students/
2. Staff B. Hidden Active Ingredients Found in Honey-Based Products. Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/hidden-active-ingredients-found-in-honeybased-products
3. Research C for DE and. Public Notification: X Rated Honey For Men contains hidden drug ingredient. FDA. Published online April 25, 2022. Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/medication-health-fraud/public-notification-x-rated-honey-men-contains-hidden-drug-ingredient
