NPS: Medical Consequences Associated with Their Intake

Fabrizio Schifano, Laura Orsolini, Duccio Papanti, John Corkery

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)peer-review

20 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Over the last decade, the 'traditional' drug scene has been supplemented - but not replaced - by the emergence of a range of novel psychoactive substances (NPS), which are either newly created or existing drugs, including medications, now being used in novel ways. By the end of 2014, in excess of 500 NPS had been reported by a large number of countries in the world. Most recent data show, however, that synthetic cathinones, synthetic cannabinoids, and psychedelics/phenethylamines account for the largest number of NPS.The present chapter aims at providing an overview of the clinical and pharmacological issues relating to these most popular NPS categories. Given the vast range of medical and psychopathological issues associated with the molecules here described, it is crucial for health professionals to be aware of the effects and toxicity of NPS. A general overview of the acute management of NPS adverse events is provided as well, although further studies are required to identify a range of evidence-based, index molecule-focused, treatment strategies. The rapid pace of change in the NPS online market constitutes a major challenge to the provision of current and reliable scientific knowledge on these substances.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationNeuropharmachology of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS):
Subtitle of host publicationThe Science Behind the Headlines
EditorsMichael H. Baumann, Richard A. Glennon, Jenny L. Wiley
PublisherSpringer Nature
Pages351-380
Number of pages30
Volume32
ISBN (Electronic)978-3-319-52444-3
ISBN (Print)978-3-319-52442-9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 7 Jun 2016

Publication series

NameCurrent Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Number1
Volume32
ISSN (Print)1866-3370

Keywords

  • Drug misuse
  • Hallucinogenic drugs
  • Hallucinogens
  • Novel Psychoactive Substances
  • Phenethylamines
  • Psychiatric disturbances
  • Synthetic cannabimimetics
  • Synthetic cathinones

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