Self-medication with Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS): a Systematic Review
International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction November 28, 2023 Tayler Holborn, Robert L. Page, Fabrizio Schifano et al. 5 citations
A review of 24 studies found that people use novel psychoactive substances (NPS) to self-medicate, primarily for anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Specific links emerged between cluster headaches and psychedelic NPS, and between anxiety and novel benzodiazepines. Novel benzodiazepine use among young individuals is a particular concern. The authors call for greater healthcare professional awareness and more qualitative research into motivations.