From the Research
The correct statement relating to novel psychoactive substances (NPS) is that NPS that are synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists can cause seizures. This is an important clinical fact about these substances, as highlighted in a recent study published in 2023 1. NPS are not considered safer alternatives to traditional drugs of misuse - they often have unpredictable and dangerous effects due to their novel chemical structures and potencies. They are not legal substances; many NPS have been made illegal through legislation like the Psychoactive Substances Act in various countries. Standard drug screens typically cannot identify NPS because these substances are constantly changing in chemical structure to evade detection and regulation, making them particularly dangerous in overdose situations when healthcare providers cannot identify what was consumed.
Some key points to consider about NPS include:
- They are often sold as "legal highs" or "herbal incense," but this does not mean they are safe or legal 2, 3
- Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists specifically can cause seizures because they often bind more strongly to cannabinoid receptors than natural cannabis, and can affect other neurotransmitter systems, leading to neurological complications including seizures, psychosis, and other severe adverse effects 1, 4
- The chemical structure of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists is complex and offers multiple opportunities for chemical modification to evade drug control legislation, which explains the large numbers of individual products that have been detected 5
Overall, the use of NPS poses a significant public health risk, and healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for severe adverse effects, including seizures, associated with these substances.