Chemical profile of synthetic drugs seized in Paraná State (Brazil): Possible decline of new psychoactive substances.
Forensic science international January 1, 2026 Isabella Ferreira Melo, Leociley Rocha Alencar Menezes, Philippe Rodrigues Benedetti et al.
Between 2014 and 2024, forensic analysis of 4911 seized synthetic drug samples (1656 blotter papers and 3255 ecstasy tablets) from Paraná, Brazil, identified 64 distinct chemical substances, 50 of which were new psychoactive substances (NPS). The most common compounds were central nervous system stimulants, particularly phenethylamines. In ecstasy tablets, MDA predominated, while blotter papers most often contained NBOH series compounds. LSD identifications in blotters progressively increased, whereas NPS identifications decreased over time. Most seizures occurred in the state capital, Curitiba, with fewer in border regions. The chemical profile proved diverse and resilient, and the decline in NPS coincided with stricter national and international legislative controls.