The highs and lows of NPS/“Legal High” use: Qualitative views from a UK online survey

Abstract

Introduction: Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are rapidly proliferating in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. We lack detailed information on rationales for their use. Methods: Qualitative data from 431 NPS users were collected as part of a 2014 online survey on NPS (n = 468 NPS users, 704 non-NPS users). These 431 users answered some or all of five open-ended questions on favourite NPS and NPS they would not use and rationales for these assessments. Findings: Respondents were asked to identify and describe favourite NPS. The favourite NPS identified (n = 258 respondents) mostly had brand names (148). Favourite NPS was associated with a good buzz/feeling, euphoria, enhancing sociability and relaxation. Ease of availability, cheapness and legality of NPS were cited. Achieving a predictable, safe high was important. Adverse NPS experience, including dependency issues both personally or amongst friends was reported by a majority of the 148 who described NPS that they would definitely not take and why, most of these reported having now ceased NPS use. Negative experiences ran from the mildly unpleasant to the persistent, serious and life threatening. Conclusions: Developing new methods of reaching and working with NPS users need timely knowledge of global and local trends in NPS use and effects. These data are of some assistance in expanding such knowledge.