A New Beginning: An Overview of New Psychoactive Substances

Abstract

New psychoactive substances are the newest danger trending on the drug market. Though they are defined as substances designed to replicate the effects of traditional illegal drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, amphetamines and cannabis, it has been suggested that these mimics are extensively more potent than their counterparts. Beyond the limits of current legislation, clandestine chemists have set out to manufacture these substances for profit, whilst benefitting users in areas of affordability, availability and purity. Since the rediscovery of mephedrine in 2003 and more so in recent years, the manufacture and sale of these substances has soared. Due to the rate at which these ever-increasing analogues are being manufactured, and the endless number of combinations available for production, it is unlikely the trade will be reduced in the near future. This review provides an overview of these new substances addressing; what they are, when they were produced, where they are available, how they are manufactured, who is taking them and why users are resorting to these substances over traditional substances. It is clear throughout this review that the lack of information surrounding these substances is leading to increased risks to users, untrained healthcare and forensic professionals and ineffective legislation. Welcome to, a new beginning.