What are cutting agents?

Cutting agents refer to additives or chemicals that are intentionally mixed with an illegal drug to dilute its potency or increase profits for the dealer. This practice is common in the drug trade, as it allows sellers to maintain or enhance sales volume while reducing the costs associated with the drug itself. By using cutting agents, the purity of a drug can be significantly decreased, which can affect the safety and effects experienced by users.

Understanding the role of cutting agents is crucial, particularly in discussions about drug purity and the dangers associated with illicit drug use. While cutting agents can vary widely in composition—from benign substances to harmful chemicals—their presence in drugs can lead to unpredictable effects and increased health risks for users. This concept is essential for anyone studying the implications of narcotics and dangerous drugs in both legal and health contexts.