Puskur

Puskur, also known as Sparrow Dew off-world, is an illicit synthetic substance originating in /vnug/ that has since spread to other worlds due to its potent effect. It is considered a highly addictive drug, and is known to cause severe withdrawal syndrome. Despite that, it is sometimes used for non-recreational purposes, especially when its strong effect is desired, or when better medication is unavailable.

Puskur originated as a semi-synthetic mixture of multiple drugs common during the Long Night of Despina. The original use for many of the ingredients has been lost to time, but it is believed that many of them were used either as a antineoplastic drug or performance enhancer due to their effect on user. Despite its potent effect, the adverse side effects induced by many of the drugs, as well as the high risk of substance dependency likely renders their legitimate usage limited, soon leading to them spreading in black markets as recreational drug and illicit performance enhancer.

Once Puskur is introduced into the system through inhalation, ingestion, or injection, the user will quickly feel a powerful surge of energy and an urge to “expend” the energy through intense physical and emotional activities. It is believed to be caused by Puskur triggering both a hyperarousal response and heightened cellular production of energy through inhibition of alternative metabolic process. This allows the user to exhibit extraordinary strength and endurance while under the influence of Puskur, at the cost of a prolonged sense of ennui, weakness, and hunger (especially for sugar) due to the body expending its energy reserve.

In addition to the psychological effect, Puskur’s most notable side effect is the inhibition of body development. Likely because of its inhibition of nutrient production through cellular respiration and modulation of hormone release, long-term users of Puskur tend to have stunted physical growth, especially when used by individuals before phases of rapid body development and sexual maturity.

The original Puskur is synthesized partially from the extracts of native flora and fauna of Despina, although fully synthetic methods have since been developed for production without relying on wildlife. Outside /vnug/, there is an urban legend that Puskur can be synthesized from Belym’s blood or other body parts. It likely stems from Belyms also originating in Despina, their higher resistance against cancer, and their disposition resembling Puskur’s physiological and psychological effect.