Podcast
Questions and Answers
NPS are purely derived from natural sources.
NPS are purely derived from natural sources.
False
The term 'new' in NPS refers exclusively to substances invented recently.
The term 'new' in NPS refers exclusively to substances invented recently.
False
NPS can legally be sold online without any regulations.
NPS can legally be sold online without any regulations.
True
A new law in the UK has made all psychoactive substances illegal.
A new law in the UK has made all psychoactive substances illegal.
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NPS can lead to poisoning and emergency hospital admissions.
NPS can lead to poisoning and emergency hospital admissions.
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The classification of NPS does not consider their chemical structure.
The classification of NPS does not consider their chemical structure.
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There is sufficient knowledge about the effects of all NPS on humans.
There is sufficient knowledge about the effects of all NPS on humans.
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NPS are also referred to as 'research chemicals'.
NPS are also referred to as 'research chemicals'.
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Stimulants like methiopropamine can make you feel energized and euphoric.
Stimulants like methiopropamine can make you feel energized and euphoric.
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Synthetic cannabinoids tend to have effects exactly like those of opiates.
Synthetic cannabinoids tend to have effects exactly like those of opiates.
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Psychedelics can cause hallucinations and altered perceptions.
Psychedelics can cause hallucinations and altered perceptions.
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The risks associated with new psychoactive substances are well-documented and understood.
The risks associated with new psychoactive substances are well-documented and understood.
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Downers or sedatives generally create a stimulating and energizing effect.
Downers or sedatives generally create a stimulating and energizing effect.
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Study Notes
New Psychoactive Substances (NPS)
- NPS are also known as "legal highs" or "research chemicals"
- These are synthetic substances
- Often sold online as unregulated alternatives to existing drugs
- They circumvent existing drug laws
- UNODC defines NPS as substances of abuse, either pure or in preparation
- Not controlled by the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs or the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances
- Pose a public health threat
Lecture Objectives
- Define NPS
- Describe the classification of NPS
- Describe the effects of NPS on humans
Classification By Chemical Structure
- NPS are categorized by their chemical structure into various groups
- Examples include naphthyl-methyl-indenes, polycyclic hydro-carbons, phenols, cyclohexylphenyl- and cyclohexylphenols, and amines
- See diagrams for detailed chemical classifications
Classification By Effects
- Various effects exist based on the type of NPS
- Categories include stimulants, dissociatives, sedatives/hypnotics, synthetic cannabinoids, classic hallucinogens and others.
- Examples of effects include:
- Stimulants mimicking amphetamines, cocaine, or ecstasy, which may cause energy, physical activity, fast thinking, and euphoria.
- Downers/Sedatives similar to benzodiazepines or GHB, causing euphoria, relaxation, or sleepiness. (e.g. GBH/GBL, methoxetamine)
- Psychedelics/Hallucinogens like LSD or magic mushrooms, which produce altered perceptions, hallucinations, euphoria, warmth, and/or an out-of-body experience. (e.g., NBOMe)
- Synthetic Cannabis similar to cannabis use, causing relaxation, altered consciousness, disinhibition, and energy. (e.g., APINACA, JWH-018)
Risks of New Psychoactive Substances
- Impossible to know exactly what's in a 'legal high' product purchased
- Insufficient research into the risks of using NPS
- Potentially varying effects depending on the individual
- Limited data on NPS toxicity, often due to multiple drug use occurring at the same time
- Increased risk of addiction associated with NPS use like other drugs
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Description
This quiz provides an introduction to New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), also known as 'legal highs' or 'research chemicals'. It covers their definition, classification by chemical structure and effects on humans, highlighting the public health threats they pose. Understand the implications of NPS and their alternative status in drug laws.
