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Definition of Krokodil
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Krokodil: a street drug from Russia that has been used as a substitute for heroin, according to news reports. It is reported to cause scaling, sores, and a rough appearance to the skin. The drug is reported to be synthesized from materials that one can obtain from pharmacies and home improvement stores; the finished product is injected intravenously. Some of the chemicals used to prepare the drug have apparently caused significant damage to the skin subcutaneous fat.