Named after the lab that invented the drug, Finches are one of the most commonly used drugs in the Hydrus system.

Abstract

In the 2690s, West Finch Laboratories discovered a method to package a super-saturated methylphenidate solution into a small aerosol canister. This was initially used for medicinal purposes at major hospital sectors, but the tech soon made its way to the consumer market as an alternative to nicotene inhalers. "Finches" quickly became popular due to its effectiveness and availability, causing pharmaceutical companies to take immediate action and offer their own finch product in the new market.

In 2824, finches are a common stimulant drug in the Hydrus system. However, with continued research revealing harmful effects caused by finch consumption, governments around the system are actively trying to reduce/eliminate the use of the drug.

Function

Finches come in small canisters, which are slotted into a jet injector. The user is then meant to take the injector and press into their skin, which will trigger the injection once enough pressure is applied. On average, a canister has three uses before needing to be recycled.

The primary effect of a finch revolves around personality & cognitive enhancement. Finch manufacturers provide different "flavours" which change or amplify traits of the user's mentality; one flavour can sharpen logic and verbosity, whilst another can reduce signals from the amygdala, making the user more calm under pressure. The cheapest (and most popular) flavour comes from West Finch Laboratories, which increases productivity and reduces impulsiveness.

Among multiple cardiovascular risks, the most obvious side effect of long-term finch usage happens to affect the brain, where users become psychologically dependent on the constant delivery of stimulants to the brain. Withdrawal symptoms tend to display similarly to symptoms of depression. These symptoms are usually mild, but can be extreme in some cases - with multiple finch-related deaths recorded each year.