Highs and lows: patterns of use, positive and negative effects of benzylpiperazine-containing party pills (BZP-party pills) amongst young people in New Zealand
Harm Reduction Journal January 1, 2007 Rachael Butler, Janie Sheridan 78 citations
Young New Zealanders aged 17–23 who used BZP-party pills in the previous year did so mainly during weekend social occasions and dance parties, seeking stimulant effects and enhanced socialisation. They often combined the pills with other legal and illicit drugs, especially alcohol. Many experienced physical and emotional negative effects, none life-threatening or long-term, and some reduced their use because of adverse effects. Risky behaviours included taking large doses, mixing substances, and driving while under the influence. The findings suggest that although users were not suffering excessive or dangerous harm, the potentially risky patterns of use indicate a need for harm reduction interventions.