New Drugs on the Internet: The Case of Camfetamine

Abstract

Introduction. The number of new psychoactive substances (NPS) advertised for sale online is constantly increasing and it has become a phenomenon of global concern. Among NPS, Camfetamine has been rediscovered as recreational drug in 2011. Very little information is still available in the scientific literature on its nature and potential health risks. Methods. Data in scientific literature were integrated with a multilingual qualitative assessment of a range of online resources over the period of 32 months (May 2011–January 2014). Results. N-Methyl-3-phenyl-norbornan-2-amine (Camfetamine) may act as an indirect dopaminergic agonist in the central nervous system and may have mild-moderate opioid activity too. There are no current epidemiological data about recreational use of Camfetamine; our research shows that it is indeed used especially by individuals with a history of recreational polydrug misuse. It facilitates mental alertness, induces relaxation, and, unlike many other stimulants, seems not to be associated with severe physical effects. Valid causes for concern issued in our research may be Camfetamine intravenous or intramuscular administration as well as its use in conjunction with other psychoactive substances. Conclusions. It is here highlighted that more large-scale studies need to be carried out to confirm and better describe both the extent of Camfetamine misuse and possible psychotropic/adverse effects.

Substance‐related psychopathology and aggressiveness in a nightlife holiday resort: Results from a pilot study in a psychiatric inpatient unit in Ibiza

“…However, it is important to consider that some of the newest psychoactive substance have not been reported by our sample, neither self‐declaring their use (TLFB) nor resulting from the urinalysis. This is not consistent with data from scientific literature, according to which the emergence of new substances is in a continuous development, and their diffusion is growing (Cinosi et al, ; Schifano et al, ; Zawilska & Andrzejczak, ). This could be partly explained by the nature of the sample included in the study, mainly composed of holidaymakers.…”

Acute Effects of the Novel Psychoactive Drug 2C-B on Emotions

“…Due to the fact that the recreational use of substances with similar profiles can induce severe medical and psychiatric reactions, precaution must be taken with respect to its use. As occurs with all NPS, data is not currently available concerning the medium-long term health consequences of 2C-B use [ 88 ]. Additional research regarding its pharmacology and toxicity is required in order to assess its possible therapeutic effects and potential health risks.…”

Novel psychoactive substances: use and knowledge among adolescents and young adults in urban and rural areas

“…Novel psychoactive substances are often synthesized in underground laboratories, simply modifying the molecular structure of controlled drugs, hence raising further concerns in terms of the presence of contaminating agents (Cinosi et al . ; UNODC ).…”