Krokodil: Why One Russian Drug Destroyed a Generation of Addicts (History For Sleep)

Witty Historian · Apr 6, 2026 · 1h 43m

This documentary examines the history of krokodil (desomorphine) through the lens of public health policy and pharmaceutical regulation. Originally developed in 1932 as a medical alternative to morphine, the drug resurfaced in early 2000s Russia amid heroin shortages and over-the-counter codeine access, exposing critical gaps in addiction treatment and healthcare infrastructure. Drawing on medical research and documented case studies, the film explores how regulatory decisions, limited access to evidence-based therapies, and market dynamics contributed to unintended consequences. It connects…