New psychoactive substances (NPS) appeared in 112 of 1,058 analyzed forensic cases from 2012–2014, with 75 cases in 2014 alone. The overall prevalence of NPS (15.1–17.6%) was similar to that of amphetamine alone (15.1–16.5%). Cathinones made up 88% of the NPS detected, most frequently 3-MMC, α-PVP, and pentedrone. In 35% of cases, a single NPS was the only drug found; two or more NPS appeared in 19% of cases; and most cases (65%) involved NPS alongside conventional drugs such as amphetamines, cannabinoids, cocaine, or benzodiazepines. NPS were often found in drivers' blood, posing a challenge for toxicologists due to limited data on their effects on psychomotor performance.
UR-144, a synthetic cannabinoid found in 'legal highs' since 2012, produces a range of effects on the human body. In 39 cases where UR-144 was detected in blood, concentrations ranged from trace amounts to 17 ng/mL. The most common symptoms included slurred speech, dilated pupils, abnormal pupillary reaction, cheerful behavior, poor coordination, and staggering. Less frequent effects included verbosity, narrow pupils, loss of consciousness, facial skin changes, blackout, euphoria, agitation, hallucinations, hindered communication, shaking hands, seizures, convulsions, somnolence, delayed movements, reddened conjunctiva, and tachycardia. The findings help identify possible effects of UR-144 use.