New psychoactive substances (NPS) are narcotic or psychotropic drugs not controlled by UN conventions but posing health threats similar to illicit substances. Four main classes are described: synthetic cannabinoids (plant mixtures mimicking THC, causing agitation, nausea, palpitations), synthetic cathinones (bath salt powders with amphetamine-like effects), natural hallucinogens (altering perception and mood, rarely producing true hallucinations; examples include salvinorin A, psilocybin, psilocyn, muscimol, ibotenic acid), and piperazines (tablets or capsules with weaker amphetamine-like effects). Both occasional acute intoxication and chronic consumption of NPS represent a significant health problem, especially among adolescents and young people.
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are narcotic or psychotropic drugs not controlled by United Nations conventions but posing health threats comparable to illicit substances. Four main classes are described: synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, natural hallucinogens, and piperazines. Synthetic cannabinoids mimic THC, causing agitation, nausea, and palpitations more severe than cannabis. Synthetic cathinones, derived from khat, produce amphetamine-like or cocaine-like intoxication. Natural hallucinogens like salvinorin A and psilocybin alter perception and thinking while preserving lucidity. Piperazines are weaker amphetamine analogs.