NPS

Substance

New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) are largely unresearched synthetic substances with psychoactive effects. From a chemical perspective, NPS are mostly tryptamines, phenethylamines, synthetic cathinones, synthetic cannabinoids and piperazines, synthetic amphetamines, or synthetic opioids. It can happen that cheap cannabis is mixed with synthetic cannabinoids to enhance its effects. By altering the chemical structure of some illegal substances, new products are developed that are legally tolerated in some countries (but are illegal in Switzerland) and marketed via the internet (including the darknet), a market claimed by some dealers. Sometimes, NPS are sold on the black market in place of known substances.

Forms of appearance

NPS (New Psychoactive Substances) are usually found in pure form as powders or pills, although there is no typical format. They can also occur as crystals or blunts.

Consumption patterns

All forms of consumption are possible and vary from one NPS to another.

Be careful when mixing substances!

Based on current information, most mixtures pose unexpected and, in some cases, life-threatening risks. Therefore, it is best to avoid all mixtures.

Substance groups

dosage

It depends on the substance, the method of consumption, and the purity of the substance. Several NPS are active even at doses below 1 mg. It is always necessary to use a milligram scale and/or practice volumetric dilution to avoid risks associated with a potentially excessive dose.

Effect

New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) cover the entire spectrum of effects of psychoactive substances. They can be euphoric and stimulating (e.g., mephedrone, 3-MMC, methylone, 5-MAPB), hallucinogenic (e.g., 1P-LSD, NBOME, synthetic cannabinoids), dissociative (e.g., methoxetamine), or sedating (e.g., flualprazolam, etizolam). Their effects (and side effects) can potentially be stronger and more pronounced than those of similar known substances.

Onset of action and onset effect

The onset, duration, and nature of the effects depend on the specific substance and the method of consumption. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct some research before consuming any substance.

Risks and side effects

Depending on the substance and the method of consumption, and due to limited scientific information and large-scale studies, a wide range of unexpected side effects is possible. Among the most well-known side effects are jaw clenching, dilated pupils, extreme restlessness, nervousness, headaches, poor circulation, chills, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness, and coma. Users report a severe "comedown" with insomnia, tachycardia, increased blood pressure and body temperature, and foul-smelling bodily secretions. Particularly with stimulants and sedatives, a craving for further use can occur.

Long-term risks

There is virtually no reliable evidence of long-term risks. Most of these substances carry risks comparable to those caused by more well-known substances, such as neurotoxicity or heart damage in some stimulant NPS.

Safer Use

Have your NPS analyzed, because sometimes there are false declarations or products with fanciful names in circulation (e.g., bong cleaners).
Before consuming NPS, you should always inform yourself as thoroughly as possible about the specific substance and the correct dosage. If possible, gather testimonials or recommendations from other users.
Start with small amounts and gradually work your way towards the desired effect.
Pay particular attention to the dosage. Several NPS are highly active at doses of less than 1 mg.
Tell your friends which substances you have consumed and in what quantities, or write it down in a notebook to facilitate treatment if problems arise.