New Drugs of Abuse and Withdrawal Syndromes

Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2015 Nov;33(4):779-95. doi: 10.1016/j.emc.2015.07.006.

Abstract

New drugs of abuse continue to emerge, including synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, and hallucinogens. It is important to recognize their individual psychopharmacologic properties, symptoms of intoxication, and symptoms of withdrawal. Providers must be vigilant of acute medical or psychiatric complications that may arise from use of these substances. Treatment of the patient also includes recognition of any substance use disorders as well as comorbid psychiatric disorders. Although pharmacologic treatments for substance use disorder (of the drugs included in this article) are limited, there are a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities that may be of some benefit.

Keywords: Amphetamine; Drug abuse; Drug withdrawal; NBOMe; Synthetic cannabinoid.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Designer Drugs*
  • Humans
  • Psychotropic Drugs*
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Designer Drugs
  • Psychotropic Drugs