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New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) - a Challenge for the Addiction Treatment Services
Norbert Scherbaum1, F Schifano2, Udo Bonnet3
1LVR-Hospital Essen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
Pharmacopsychiatry
|April 27, 2017
Summary
Hundreds of new psychoactive substances (NPS), including synthetic cannabinoids and stimulants, are emerging in Europe. These substances, often mislabeled, pose unknown risks and severe adverse reactions, differing from cannabis effects.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hundreds of new psychoactive substances (NPS) have emerged in Europe recently.
- NPS primarily include synthetic cannabinoids and novel synthetic stimulants like cathinones.
- These substances are often synthesized by modifying existing chemical structures (e.g., phenethylamine, tryptamine).
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing prevalence and identification of NPS in Europe.
- To discuss the marketing and labeling of NPS as "legal highs" or misleading products.
- To outline the potential severe adverse reactions associated with NPS use.
Main Methods:
- Review of identified NPS in Europe.
- Analysis of common chemical modifications in NPS synthesis.
- Examination of reported adverse effects and user presentations.
Main Results:
- NPS are increasingly identified, with synthetic cannabinoids and cathinones being prominent.
- Many NPS are marketed deceptively online as "bath salts" or "incense mixtures."
- NPS use, particularly synthetic cannabinoids, is linked to severe adverse reactions like seizures and psychopathological disorders, distinct from cannabis.
Conclusions:
- The pharmacology and toxicology of most NPS remain largely unknown.
- NPS pose significant public health risks due to their unknown effects and potential for severe adverse reactions.
- Further research is crucial for developing effective management and treatment strategies for NPS intoxication.
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