BLOG POST
Unlocking the Truth Behind Synthetic Drugs: Risks, Effects, and Legal Landscape”
Apr
In an era marked by innovation and technological advancement, the realm of drug abuse has taken a peculiar turn with the emergence of synthetic drugs. These substances, often referred to as Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS), pose unique challenges to public health and law enforcement agencies worldwide. As we delve into this intricate landscape, we aim to shed light on what synthetic drugs are, their types, effects, legal status in the United Kingdom, and the crucial aspect of seeking help
What are Synthetic Drugs?
Synthetic drugs (or new psychoactive substances (NPS), aim to mimic the effects of existing illicit drugs (such as cannabis, cocaine, MDMA and LSD).
Synthetic drugs have different chemical structures from the illicit substances they are trying to mimic. Manufacturers of synthetic drugs constantly change their chemical structures to try and stay ahead of the law.
Some synthetic drugs can be marketed as ‘legal’, safe and acceptable alternatives to illicit drugs. However, this does not mean that they are legal or safe.
There is no recommended dosage on a packet of synthetic drugs. The chemicals can also change from one packet to the next. Two packets from the same batch can affect you in different ways.
Synthetic drugs are not quality controlled or regulated, so there are concerns over what is actually in them.
Given how often synthetic drugs emerge, it is hard to know how harmful these drugs are in any dose. There is limited research on the short- and long-term effects of these substances. However synthetic cannabis is reported to have more serious side-effects than cannabis.
Names of synthetic (NPS) drugs
Synthetic drugs may also be known as:
- new and emerging drugs (NEDs)
- bath salts (monkey dust)
- herbal highs
- herbal incense
- aphrodisiac tea
- NBOMes
- legal highs
- party pills
- synthetic cocaine
- synthetic cannabis
- herbal ecstasy
- plant fertiliser
- drug analogues and derivatives
- research chemicals.
Synthetic drug use and the law in Australia
New laws were introduced in Victoria in 2017 that specifically target new synthetic drugs.
While many synthetic drugs or classes of drugs are already prohibited, under these new laws, any person found producing, selling or promoting synthetic drugs faces up to 2 years in prison and/or a fine of over $38,000.
The new laws do not provide a definite list of psychoactive substances. Instead, the definition of a psychoactive substance applies.
Types of synthetic drugs
Common categories of synthetic drugs (or NPS) available in Australia include:
- synthetic cannabinoids
- phenethylamines
- synthetic cathinones
- tryptamines
- piperazines
- novel benzodiazepines.
Synthetic cannabinoids (synthetic cannabis)
Synthetic cannabinoids are, designed to mimic the effects of cannabis. They have been sold online in Australia since 2004.
They are similar to delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the active ingredient in cannabis. However, some newer substances marketed as synthetic cannabinoids do not mimic the effects of THC.
Synthetic cannabinoids are mixed with solvents, combined with herbs and sold in colourful packets. They are generally smoked or sometimes drunk as a tea.
The chemicals in each packet of synthetic cannabinoids can vary, even if the branding and colours on the packet are the same. Two different packets from the same batch can affect you in different ways.
Types of synthetic cannabinoids (synthetic cannabis)
‘Spice’ was the earliest in a series of synthetic cannabinoids sold in Australia.
Since then, a number of other similar products have been developed for sale, such as ‘kronic’, ‘northern lights’, ‘lighting gold’, ‘mojo’, ‘blue lotus’ and ‘godfather’.
A lot of synthetic cannabinoids have only recently been developed, so there is limited information available about their short- and long-term effects.
Effects of synthetic cannabinoids (synthetic cannabis)
Synthetic cannabinoids produce a similar effect to smoking cannabis. Reported effects include:
- euphoria
- feelings of wellbeing
- spontaneous laughter and excitement
- increased appetite
- dry mouth
- quiet and reflective mood.
Toxic effects of synthetic cannabinoids
A growing number of reports (mostly from the United States), indicate that people are increasingly experiencing toxic effects from synthetic cannabinoid use. These include:
- rapid heart rate and rapid breathing (tachypnoea)
- hypertension (high blood pressure)
- heart palpitations
- chest pain
- vomiting
- kidney problems
- psychosis
- seizures
- stroke
- death.
There is concern about serious acute and long-term toxicities.
Novel benzodiazepines
Novel benzodiazepines may be sold under the names, ‘legal benzodiazepines’ or ‘research chemicals’.
These include chemicals that were tested but not approved for medicinal purposes, or manufactured substances with a different structure from existing benzodiazepines.
There is a limited understanding of the short- and long-term health impacts of benzodiazepines.
Withdrawal from novel benzodiazepines
Symptoms of withdrawal from novel benzodiazepines can include:
- headaches
- aching or twitching muscles
- dizziness and tremors
- nausea, vomiting, stomach pains
- bizarre dreams, difficulty sleeping, fatigue
- poor concentration
- anxiety and irritability
- altered perception, heightening of senses
- delusions, hallucinations and paranoia
- seizures.
While synthetic drugs present numerous challenges and risks, it’s important to acknowledge that they also offer certain benefits, albeit in limited contexts. In conclusion, understanding the complexities surrounding synthetic drugs requires a balanced perspective that considers both their negative and potential positive aspects.
Conclusion
Synthetic drugs, or Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS), represent a multifaceted issue with significant implications for public health, law enforcement, and society as a whole. These substances, engineered to mimic the effects of traditional drugs, pose unique challenges due to their constantly evolving nature, legal ambiguities, and associated health risks.
The widespread availability and accessibility of synthetic drugs, often sold under misleading labels or marketed as legal alternatives to controlled substances, contribute to their popularity among certain demographics. However, the unpredictable nature of these substances and the lack of regulation pose serious risks to individuals who consume them, ranging from acute toxicity and adverse reactions to long-term physical and psychological harm.
Benefits
While the risks associated with synthetic drugs are well-documented, it’s essential to acknowledge that they may offer certain benefits in specific contexts. For example:
- Research and Innovation: Some synthetic compounds have potential applications in medical research and pharmacology. By synthesizing novel molecules, researchers can explore new treatment modalities for various conditions, including neurological disorders and chronic pain.
- Clinical Use: Synthetic derivatives of traditional drugs, such as benzodiazepines, have been developed to address specific medical needs, such as managing anxiety or insomnia. When used under the guidance of healthcare professionals, these medications can provide therapeutic benefits to patients.
- Forensic Analysis: Synthetic drug analogs play a crucial role in forensic science, aiding in the identification and analysis of illicit substances seized by law enforcement agencies. By synthesizing reference standards and analytical tools, forensic laboratories can enhance their capabilities in drug detection and prosecution.
Balancing Risks and Benefits
While acknowledging these potential benefits, it’s essential to emphasize that the risks associated with synthetic drugs far outweigh any perceived advantages. The unregulated nature of these substances, coupled with their unpredictable effects and potential for abuse, underscores the need for comprehensive regulatory measures, public education campaigns, and targeted interventions to address synthetic drug use effectively.
navigating the landscape of synthetic drugs requires a nuanced understanding of their complexities, including the associated risks and potential benefits. By adopting evidence-based approaches that prioritize harm reduction, prevention, and treatment, we can work towards mitigating the harms associated with synthetic drug use and promoting healthier communities.party pills uk
