Novel Drugs of Abuse: A Snapshot of an Evolving Marketplace

Abstract

Background & objectives-Over the past decade, non-medical use of novel drugs has proliferated worldwide. In most cases these are synthetic drugs first synthesized in academic or pharmaceutical laboratories for research or drug development purposes, but also include naturally occurring substances that do not fit the typical pharmacological or behavioral profile of traditional illicit substances. Perhaps most unique to this generation of new drugs is that they are being sold over the counter and on the Internet as "legal highs" or substitutes for traditional illicit drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, MDMA, and LSD. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of novel drugs in current use, including the epidemiology of use and toxicologic and pharmacological properties, and to offer some guidelines to clinicians who see patients experiencing adverse effects from these drugs.

Next generation of novel psychoactive substances on the horizon – A complex problem to face

“…They include a wide range of products that can be purchased online, from head shops, and drug dealers (EMCDDA, 2014a(EMCDDA, , 2015aPapaseit et al, 2014;Vandrey et al, 2013;Zawilska, 2011). NPS are sold as 'legal/herbal highs', 'bath salts', 'plant food', 'insect repellents', 'research chemicals', 'air fresheners', with the disclaimer "not for human consumption" or "for research purposes only" to circumvent drug abuse legislation (EMCDDA, 2014a(EMCDDA, , 2015aZawilska, 2011) (UNODC, 2013).…”

Time course of pharmacokinetic and hormonal effects of inhaled high-dose salvinorin A in humans

“…Laboratory research has not found evidence of persisting psychotic-type episodes resulting from salvinorin A (Addy, 2012; Johnson et al, 2011; MacLean et al, 2013; Ranganathan et al, 2012). Cases of persisting psychotic-type episodes have been reported in association with recreational use, although the causal role of S. divinorum remains unclear (Vandrey et al, 2013). In addition, the dissociative and perceptual effects resulting from salvinorin A (Addy, 2012; Johnson et al, 2011; MacLean et al, 2013; Ranganathan et al, 2012), could potentially result in dangerous behavior in an unsupervised environment.…”

Investigation of “Bath Salts” Use Patterns Within an Online Sample of Users in the United States

“…“Bath salts” are synthetic stimulants similar to cathinones that have recently gained attention as “legal highs” (Vandrey et al 2013). These products are not used as bath water additives.…”