New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) Trends in the United States

Abstract

Introduction: New psychoactive substances (NPS) have continually evolved since appearing in the United States in 2009. The timely dissemination of information outlining the NPS currently in the market provides useful information to the law enforcement and health communities. This presentation will illustrate NPS identifications and trends tracked by Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) laboratory system. Methods: Data was collected for this analysis through a query of archived seizure and analysis information. The information targeted in this query included the date and location of the seizure and substances identified during the chemical analysis performed by the eight DEA chemistry laboratories. These seizure details and analytical results are used to compile drug intelligence, detect the appearance of new drugs of abuse, and monitor drug trends. Results: The most prevalent NPS identified in the United States fall within the categories of synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones, and opioids. Other chemical classes identified during the first half of CY 2023 include benzodiazepines, tryptamines, hallucinogens, and several other classes. Particular attention will be paid to the current opioid market in the United States. Conclusions: Due to the ever-changing nature of NPS, the criminal justice system is confronted with a unique set of challenges. Understanding the current trends and monitoring the emergence of NPS within the United States enables the health, forensic, enforcement, and legislative communities to be better prepared to fight the NPS epidemic.