Title: New psychoactive substances and the risks of consumption in children and adolescents
Time: 12:00-12:30 (GMT)
Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) a "new
psychoactive substance is considered any narcotic or psychotropic substance in
pure form or in preparations, which is not controlled by the Conventions
regarding drugs of the United Nations and which represent a threat to human
health comparable to that realized by the substances registered in these
conventions considered illicit substances . There have been described 4 main
classes of new psychoactive substances:synthetic cannabinoids (contained in
plant mixtures) , synthetic cathinones (contained in various bath salt
powders),natural hallucinogens and piperazines (contained in tablets or
capsules). Synthetic cannabinoids are synthetic agonists of cannabinoid
receptors, constituting a group of synthetic substances that mimic the effects
of ?9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main product from cannabis, responsible
for its psychoactive effects. Symptoms of poisoning are similar to those of cannabis
poisoning but more severe, the clinical picture most commonly comprising:
agitation, nausea, palpitations. Synthetic cathinones are compounds derived
from cathinone - the main constituent of the Catha Edulis plant known as
"KHAT". The effects of the consumption are similar to those of
amphetamines, methamphetamines or cocaine. Natural hallucinogens are substances
that in small doses have the main effect of altering the perception of thinking
and mood with the preservation of lucidity along with minor effects on memory
and orientation (23, 24). Despite the name these substances rarely produce true
hallucinations. The most popular natural hallucinogens are: salvinorin A
,psilocybin and psilocyn muscimol and ibotenic acid. Piperazines are synthetic
compounds similar to amphetamines but with weaker effects.The best known are:
benzylpiperazines and phenylpiperazines. The effects of consumption and
intoxication are similar to those of
MDMA (Ectasy
Conclusions
The occasional consumption that can lead
to acute intoxication or the chronic consumption of new psychoactive substances
represents an important health problem occupying a place that should not be
neglected in the pathology of adolescents and young people.
Keywords:
New psychoactive substances, cannabinoids,
cathinones, piperazines