David Baumeister

2 papers in the library · 275 citations · publishing 2015-2017

Papers

Legal highs: staying on top of the flood of novel psychoactive substances

Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology January 26, 2015 David Baumeister, Luis M. Tojo, Derek K. Tracy 158 citations

A growing number of new or novel psychoactive substances (NPS), often called 'legal highs', are being produced by modifying existing drugs to circumvent bans. In 2013 alone, 81 new substances were identified. This rapid evolution has created confusion for clinicians and the public, partly because newer compounds can be more potent. This review categorizes NPS into five groups based on parent compounds: stimulants, cannabinoids, benzodiazepines, dissociatives, and classic hallucinogens. For each class, the paper describes pharmacodynamics, effects, harmfulness, dependency risk, and potential clinical uses. Clinicians may encounter NPS through acute intoxication, substance misuse, or longer-term health effects. Current knowledge is limited, and more research is urgently needed.

DOI: 10.1177/2045125314559539 Psilocybin MDMA Mescaline Hallucinogen +6

Novel psychoactive substances: types, mechanisms of action, and effects

BMJ January 25, 2017 Derek K. Tracy, David M. Wood, David Baumeister 117 citations

Over 900 distinct novel psychoactive substances (NPS) have been identified globally, with 85% distributed via the World Wide Web. These compounds, often mimicking cannabis, exert complex action on the brain, leading to severe adverse effects in 30% of users. Computer science aids discreet advertising, challenging Internet privacy and visitor pattern monitoring. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis are vital for identification, informing Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research efforts to combat this evolving public health threat.

DOI: 10.1136/bmj.i6848 Full text Action physics Internet privacy Visitor pattern World wide web +3