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Motyka MA, Al-Imam A. Representations of Psychoactive Drugs' Use in Mass Culture and Their Impact on Audiences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116000. [PMID: 34204970 PMCID: PMC8199904 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Drug use has been increasing worldwide over recent decades. Apart from the determinants of drug initiation established in numerous studies, the authors wish to draw attention to other equally important factors, which may contribute to augmenting this phenomenon. The article aims to draw attention to the content of mass culture, especially representations of drug use in mass media, which may influence the liberalization of attitudes towards drugs and their use. The role of mass culture and its impact on the audience is discussed. It presents an overview of drug representations in the content of mass culture, e.g., in film, music, literature, and the occurrence of drug references in everyday products, e.g., food, clothes, and cosmetics. Attention was drawn to liberal attitudes of celebrities and their admissions to drug use, particularly to the impact of the presented positions on the attitudes of the audience, especially young people for whom musicians, actors, and celebrities are regarded as authorities. Indications for further preventive actions were also presented. Attention was drawn to the need to take appropriate action due to the time of the COVID-19 pandemic when many people staying at home (due to lockdown or quarantine) have the possibility of much more frequent contact with mass culture content, which may distort the image of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek A. Motyka
- Institute of Sociological Sciences, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland;
| | - Ahmed Al-Imam
- Department of Anatomy and Cellular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad 10001, Iraq
- Alumni Ambassador, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AD, UK
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +964-(0)-7714338199
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Abstract
U-47700, 3,4-dichloro-N-((1R,2R)-2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl)-N-methyl benzamide, is a novel synthetic opioid (NSO), discovered by the Upjohn company in the late 1970s. With potent in vivo activity, ∼10-times greater than that of morphine, U-47700 has become a drug of widespread abuse due to its ease of synthesis and, until recently, lack of robust detection methods by law enforcement. U-47700 has been found in counterfeit oxycodone tablets and is a key ingredient in "gray death." Due to its emergence worldwide in the past 5 years, it is now a Schedule I drug in the United States and similarly designated around the world; moreover, at autopsy, U-47700 was found to have contributed to the death of the pop artist Prince. This Review will capture the >40 year history of U-47700 and go in-depth regarding the synthesis, medicinal chemistry, in vitro/in vivo pharmacology, drug metabolism (from postmortem overdose cases), and societal impact of this DARK Classic in chemical neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwaku Kyei-Baffour
- Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Craig W. Lindsley
- Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
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Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder: Etiology, Clinical Features, and Therapeutic Perspectives. Brain Sci 2018; 8:brainsci8030047. [PMID: 29547576 PMCID: PMC5870365 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8030047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a rare, and therefore, poorly understood condition linked to hallucinogenic drugs consumption. The prevalence of this disorder is low; the condition is more often diagnosed in individuals with a history of previous psychological issues or substance misuse, but it can arise in anyone, even after a single exposure to triggering drugs. The aims of the present study are to review all the original studies about HPPD in order to evaluate the following: (1) the possible suggested etiologies; (2) the possible hallucinogens involved in HPPD induction; (3) the clinical features of both HPPD I and II; (4) the possible psychiatric comorbidities; and (5) the available and potential therapeutic strategies. We searched PubMed to identify original studies about psychedelics and Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD). Our research yielded a total of 45 papers, which have been analyzed and tabled to provide readers with the most updated and comprehensive literature review about the clinical features and treatment options for HPPD.
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Life (and death) in Pink: The dangerous rise of synthetic opioids in the new psychoactive substances panorama. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 28:225-226. [PMID: 29249554 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances represent a recent and unprecedented challenge in the global health panorama. Recently, among these, synthetic opioids are growing in number and prevalence of use, leaving behind them severe intoxications and victims, and fuelling the illicit drug market, particularly on the Dark Net. Further attention should be drawn to this alarming phenomenon, from both clinicians and policymakers.
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Mdege ND, Meader N, Lloyd C, Parrott S, McCambridge J. The Novel Psychoactive Substances in the UK Project: empirical and conceptual review work to produce research recommendations. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.3310/phr05040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundAlthough illegal drug use has largely been declining in the UK over the past decade, this period has witnessed the emergence of a range of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) (‘legal highs’). These are new, mostly synthetic, substances that mimic the effects of existing drugs). Despite there being many causes for concern in relation to NPS, there has been little prior study of the burden associated with their use in public health terms. Clarity is lacking on research priorities in this rapidly developing literature.ObjectivesTo inform the development of public health intervention research on NPS by reviewing existing data on their use, associated problems and potential responses to such problems.DesignA scoping review and narrative synthesis of selected bodies of evidence was undertaken to summarise and evaluate what is known about NPS use and the related harms of, and responses to, such use. Relevant literature was identified from electronic databases (covering January 2006 to June 2016 inclusive), Google (Google Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA), relevant websites and online drug forums and by contacting experts. Articles were included if they were primary studies, secondary studies involving the analysis and interpretation of primary research or discussion papers. A conceptual framework postulating an evidence-informed public health approach to NPS use in the UK was developed through a pragmatic literature review, the iterative development of concepts and finalisation in light of the results from the empirical review work. The process also involved feedback from various stakeholders. Research recommendations were developed from both strands of work.ResultsA total of 995 articles were included in the scoping review, the majority of which related to individual-level health-related adverse effects attributable to NPS use. The prevalence of lifetime NPS use varied widely between (e.g. with higher prevalence in young males) and within population subgroups. The most commonly reported adverse effects were psychiatric/other neurological, cardiovascular, renal and gastrointestinal manifestations, and there is limited evidence available on responses. In these and other respects, available evidence is at an early stage of development. Initial evidence challenges the view that NPS should be treated differently from other illicit drugs. The conceptual framework indicated that much of the evidence that would be useful to inform public health responses does not yet exist. We propose a systems-based prevention approach that develops existing responses, is multilevel and life course informed in character, and emphasises commonalities between NPS and other legal and illegal drug use. We make 20 recommendations for research, including nine key recommendations.LimitationsScoping reviews do not interrogate evidence in depth, and the disjunction between the scoping review and the conceptual framework findings is worthy of careful attention.ConclusionsKey research recommendations build on those that have previously been made and offer more evidence-based justification and detail, as previous recommendations have not yet been acted on. The case for decision-making on commissioning new research based on these recommendations is both strong and urgent.Future workThe validity of recommendations generated through this project could be enhanced via further work with research commissioners, policy-makers, researchers and the public.Study registrationThe systematic review element of this study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42016026415.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noreen D Mdege
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nick Meader
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Charlie Lloyd
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Steve Parrott
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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Martinotti G, Cinosi E, Santacroce R, Papanti D, Pasquini A, Mancini V, Corbo M, Fiori F, Sarchione F, Marchetti D, Verrocchio MC, Di Giannantonio M, Torrens M, Schifano F, Morlan Coarasa MJ, Merino Del Villar C. Substance-related psychopathology and aggressiveness in a nightlife holiday resort: Results from a pilot study in a psychiatric inpatient unit in Ibiza. Hum Psychopharmacol 2017; 32. [PMID: 28557062 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to describe a sample of subjects admitted to a psychiatric unit after the intake of psychoactive substances for recreational purposes. METHODS Between June and September 2015, 49 subjects were included. Sociodemographic characteristics and psychopathological aspects were investigated, and urine samples for further analysis were collected. Three subgroups (cannabinoids, stimulants, and depressors users) were identified, according to the structured interview regarding substance use and urinalysis. RESULTS Level of aggressiveness was found to be significantly higher (p < .05) in the cannabinoids subgroup. Self-reported symptom severity was comparable among groups, but trends could be identified: SCL-90 results showed a prevalence of anxiety symptoms among depressors users, hostility or aggression in the tetrahydrocannabinol subgroup, and psychoticism in the stimulants subgroup. CONCLUSIONS The use of psychoactive substances was be characterised by poly-use of both traditional and novel substances. The presence of aggressiveness emerged as a main feature associated with the use of cannabis and other cannabinoids. Binge drinking and sleep deprivation also represented a relevant component in almost all the evaluated subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Herts, UK
| | - Eduardo Cinosi
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Rita Santacroce
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Herts, UK
| | - Duccio Papanti
- Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy
| | - Anna Pasquini
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Valerio Mancini
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Mariangela Corbo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Federica Fiori
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Fabiola Sarchione
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Daniela Marchetti
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Territorial Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Verrocchio
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Territorial Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Massimo Di Giannantonio
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Marta Torrens
- Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addicions, Hospital del Mar, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Herts, UK
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New Psychoactive Substances: Chemistry, Pharmacology, Metabolism, and Detectability of Amphetamine Derivatives With Modified Ring Systems. Ther Drug Monit 2016; 38:4-11. [PMID: 26327309 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, new amphetamine derivatives with modified ring systems were sold and consumed as new drugs of abuse. They belong together with other new drugs of abuse classes to the so-called new psychoactive substances (NPS). The chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, metabolism, and toxicokinetics are shortly discussed of camfetamine, 3 methylphenyl-amphetamines (2-MA, 3-MA, and 4-MA), 2-methiopropamine (2-MPA), and 5-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (5-APB), 6-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (6-APB, so-called "benzofury") and their N-methyl derivatives 5-MAPB and 6-MAPB. Only a rough assessment of the pharmacology and toxicology NPS can be performed in most cases using published data of analogs, trip reports, and described clinical cases. Accordingly, they all act more or less as central nervous stimulants mainly by increasing the concentration of the neurotransmitters noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin (5-HT) by inducing their release and reuptake inhibition. Thus, the acute toxicity is associated with the sympathomimetic effects, such as mydriasis, hyperthermia, hypertension, tachycardia, insomnia, and anxiety. With the exception of 5- and 6-APB, these NPS were extensively metabolized by N-demethylation and/or aromatic hydroxylation catalyzed by various cytochrome P450 isoenzymes followed by partial glucuronidation and/or sulfation. For urinalysis, the unchanged drugs and/or the nor-metabolites are the main targets.
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Following "the Roots" of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa): The Evolution of an Enhancer from a Traditional Use to Increase Work and Productivity in Southeast Asia to a Recreational Psychoactive Drug in Western Countries. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:968786. [PMID: 26640804 PMCID: PMC4657101 DOI: 10.1155/2015/968786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Revised: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of substances to enhance human abilities is a constant and cross-cultural feature in the evolution of humanity. Although much has changed over time, the availability on the Internet, often supported by misleading marketing strategies, has made their use even more likely and risky. This paper will explore the case of Mitragyna speciosa Korth. (kratom), a tropical tree used traditionally to combat fatigue and improve work productivity among farm populations in Southeast Asia, which has recently become popular as novel psychoactive substance in Western countries. Specifically, it (i) reviews the state of the art on kratom pharmacology and identification; (ii) provides a comprehensive overview of kratom use cross-culturally; (iii) explores the subjective experiences of users; (iv) identifies potential risks and side-effects related to its consumption. Finally, it concludes that the use of kratom is not negligible, especially for self-medication, and more clinical, pharmacological, and socioanthropological studies as well as a better international collaboration are needed to tackle this marginally explored phenomenon.
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Acute Effects of the Novel Psychoactive Drug 2C-B on Emotions. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:643878. [PMID: 26543863 PMCID: PMC4620274 DOI: 10.1155/2015/643878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background. 2C-B (Nexus) is one of the most widespread novel psychoactive substances. There is limited information about its pharmacological properties, and few studies in humans concern its acute and chronic effects. 2C-B has been classified as a stimulant, hallucinogen, entactogen, and/or empathogen. Objectives. To evaluate the emotional, subjective, and cardiovascular effects of 2C-B. Methods. Twenty healthy recreational 2C-B users (12 women) self-administered a 20 mg dose of 2C-B. Evaluations included emotional (IAPS, FERT, and speech), subjective (visual analog scales, ARCI, VESSPA, HRS, and POMS questionnaires), and cardiovascular effects (blood pressure and heart rate). Results. Positive subjective effects predominated with a reduction of anger under the influence of 2C-B. It did, however, increase reactivity to negative emotional stimuli and decrease the ability to recognize expressions of happiness. Augmented emotionality in speech could be appreciated by others. 2C-B induced euphoria and well-being, changes in perceptions, and slight hallucinogenic states. Mild sympathetic actions were observed. Conclusions. The specific profile that 2C-B exerts on emotions suggests its classification as an entactogen with psychedelic properties.
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Martinotti G, Lupi M, Carlucci L, Cinosi E, Santacroce R, Acciavatti T, Chillemi E, Bonifaci L, Janiri L, Di Giannantonio M. Novel psychoactive substances: use and knowledge among adolescents and young adults in urban and rural areas. Hum Psychopharmacol 2015. [PMID: 26216566 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are new psychotropic drugs, not scheduled under the International Conventions on Psychotropic Substances, but which may pose a relevant public health threat. In this study, we investigated knowledge and use of NPS in a sample of Italian youth in urban and rural areas. METHODS Between December 2012 and October 2013, we administered a questionnaire to a sample of 3011 healthy subjects (44.7% men; 55.3% women), aged between 16 and 24 years and recruited in urban, intermediate and rural areas of Italy. RESULTS Of the global sample, 53.3% declared to have some knowledge on NPS, with a higher knowledge in urban areas. Mephedrone (26%), desomorphine (22.6%) and methamphetamine (21.7%) were the most commonly known drugs. NPS use was reported by 4.7% of the sample, without significant differences between urban and rural areas; mephedrone (3.3%), synthetic cannabinoids (1.2%) and Salvia divinorum (0.3%) consumption has been identified. NPS use was also predictive of binge-drinking behaviours (χ(2) (4) = 929.58, p < .001). DISCUSSION Urban areas may represent a focal point for preventive strategies, given the presence of higher levels of NPS knowledge. Moreover, the association between binge-drinking habits and NPS use was really strong. This issue should not be underestimated because of its medical, psychopathological and social consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, " G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Matteo Lupi
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, " G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Leonardo Carlucci
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Humanities and Territory, " G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Eduardo Cinosi
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, " G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Rita Santacroce
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, " G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Tiziano Acciavatti
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, " G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | | | | | - Luigi Janiri
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Catholic University Medical School, Rome, Italy
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Iudici A, Castelnuovo G, Faccio E. New drugs and polydrug use: implications for clinical psychology. Front Psychol 2015; 6:267. [PMID: 25852592 PMCID: PMC4362076 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Iudici
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology, University of Padua Padua, Italy
| | - Gianluca Castelnuovo
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan Milan, Italy ; Psychology Research Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Ospedale San Giuseppe Verbania, Italy
| | - Elena Faccio
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology, University of Padua Padua, Italy
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