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Current "legal highs"
Lucas A Johnson1, Rebecca L Johnson, Ray-Bernard Portier
1III Marine Headquarters Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Unit 35640, FPO AP 96606-5640, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|March 27, 2013
Summary
Novel "legal highs" are increasingly abused by young people globally. These substances mimic traditional drugs and exploit legal loopholes, posing challenges for control and increasing physician encounters.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Criminology and Law
- Public Health
Background:
- Rising abuse of novel psychoactive substances, termed "legal highs," among youth in the US, Europe, and Australia.
- These substances encompass diverse compounds, from plant-based to synthetic, including Spice, Salvia, mephedrone, and methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review prevalent "legal highs" and analyze the scientific basis of legal challenges in controlling their trafficking.
- To inform healthcare professionals about the increasing prevalence and nature of these substances.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of common "legal highs" and analysis of existing controlled substance legislation.
- Examination of the scientific properties and marketing strategies of novel psychoactive substances.
Main Results:
- "Legal highs" demonstrate psychotropic effects, mimicking traditional drugs of abuse.
- Their intentional design exploits inadequacies in current controlled substance laws, facilitating widespread recreational use.
Conclusions:
- The use of "legal highs" is escalating globally, posing significant public health and legal challenges.
- Physicians should anticipate an increased prevalence of these substances due to evolving legislation and manufacturing tactics.
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