Citation

Fattore L. Biol. Psychiatry 2016; 79(7): 539-548.

Affiliation

CNR Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (Italy), and Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence," Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy. Electronic address: lfattore@in.cnr.it.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.02.001

PMID

26970364

Abstract

Consumption of synthetic mind-altering compounds, also known as "new psychoactive substances," is increasing globally at an alarming rate. Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are among the most commonly used new psychoactive substances. They are usually purchased as marijuana-like drugs, marketed as herbal blends and perceived as risk-free by inexperienced users. Yet, contrary to Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, SCs may lead to severe health consequences, including anxiety, tachycardia, hallucinations, violent behavior, and psychosis. This review focuses on the latest (2010-2015) evidence of psychotic symptoms induced by ingestion of products containing SCs. Reports suggesting that SCs may either exacerbate previously stable psychotic symptoms (in vulnerable individuals) or trigger new-onset psychosis (in individuals with no previous history of psychosis) are reviewed. Pharmacology and toxicology of these compounds are discussed, with particular reference to their psychoactive effects.

Copyright © 2016 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en