Reports that 25 psychoactive substances have been identified in herbal preparations marketed as legal hallucinogens and marijuana substitutes, and that a number of intoxications have resulted from their short- or long-term use. The authors advise physicians to consider these products when taking drug histories and evaluating possible causes of medical complaints.
Abstract
Herbal preparations, designed to be smoked or ingested for "health and happiness", are promoted as legal hallucinogens, euphoriants, and marihuana substitutes. A total of 25 psychoactive substances have been identified in these products, and a number of intoxications have resulted from their short- or long-term use. Physicians should be alerted to the nature of these effects when taking drug histories, and their possible role in the causation of medical complaints should be considered.