A web-based survey on mephedrone

Drug Alcohol Depend. 2011 Oct 1;118(1):19-22. doi: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2011.02.011. Epub 2011 Mar 21.

Abstract

Background: This study sought to collect information on the former legal-high 'mephedrone' using a web-based survey targeted at mephedrone users.

Methods: The survey was advertised on websites frequented by drug users. Individuals were invited to complete the survey if they had taken mephedrone on at least one occasion in the past.

Results: One thousand and six completed forms were received from declared users, making this the largest survey on mephedrone to date.

Conclusion: Results showed that mephedrone users consider its effects to compare best with those of MDMA, and while MDMA was considered marginally safer and its effects more pleasurable, mephedrone's appeal lay in its availability, low price and reliable purity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants* / adverse effects
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants* / economics
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants* / pharmacology
  • Cocaine / pharmacology
  • Commerce
  • Data Collection
  • Designer Drugs* / adverse effects
  • Designer Drugs* / economics
  • Designer Drugs* / pharmacology
  • Drug Users / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Drug Users / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs / adverse effects
  • Illicit Drugs / economics*
  • Illicit Drugs / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Illicit Drugs / pharmacology
  • Internet
  • Male
  • Methamphetamine / adverse effects
  • Methamphetamine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Methamphetamine / economics
  • Methamphetamine / pharmacology
  • Middle Aged
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / pharmacology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Designer Drugs
  • Illicit Drugs
  • Methamphetamine
  • mephedrone
  • Cocaine
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine