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Consumption of new psychoactive substances in a Spanish sample of research chemical users

2013; Wiley; Volume: 28; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1002/hup.2323

1099-1077

Débora González, Mireia Ventura, Fernando Caudevilla, Marta Torrens, Magı́ Farré,

Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior

Objective To know the pattern of use of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) in a Spanish sample of research chemical (RC) users and to deepen the RC user profile and risk reduction strategies employed. Methods This study is a cross‐sectional survey by means of a specific questionnaire. Recruitment was carried out at music festivals, at non‐governmental organizations (NGOs), and through announcements on an online forum. Two RC user profiles were defined, according to whether they search information through online forums. Results A total of 230 users participated. The most frequent RCs were hallucinogenic phenethylamines (2C‐B 80.0%, 2C‐I 39.6%) and cathinones (methylone 40.1%, mephedrone 35.2%). The most frequent combination of RC with other illegal drugs was with cannabis (68.6%) and 2C‐B with MDMA (28.3%). Subjects who are consulting drug forums (group 1) use more RC, obtain RC by Internet, and use more frequently risk prevention strategies. Regarding the risk‐reduction strategies in this group, users sought information concerning RC before consuming them (100%), used precision scales to calculate dosage (72.3%), and analyzed the contents before consumption (68.8%). Conclusions There is a specific RC user profile with extensive knowledge and consumption of substances, using different strategies to reduce risks associated to its consumption. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.