CHAPTER 8: Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS) and Recent Scenarios: Epidemiological, Anthropological and Clinical Pharmacological Issues

This chapter considers the emerging issues and challenges faced by those trying to make sense of the ever-changing scene of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS). A range of inter-connected aspects require investigation and continual monitoring to achieve this goal. Here the focus is on epidemiological, anthropological and clinical pharmacological issues. Whilst such aspects are more relevant to understanding the NPS phenomenon, practical issues associated with doing so need to be appreciated. Those generating or using information on NPS need to comprehend what data are available, their limitations and uses. In that way, objective information can be fed into decision- and policy-making in relevant disciplines and arenas. A multi-disciplinary approach is advocated for understanding NPS. This chapter demonstrates how such inputs can be brought together and integrated successfully. Traditional investigatory approaches have a role to play, but the development of new and innovative techniques can complement them. Timely design and evolution of both epidemiological and scientific knowledge-bases can assist in casting new light on NPS, using a spectrum of lenses through which to view them.