online survey among nps users - ofdt

Workstream 3

Online survey among NPS users

Polish national survey report Department of Social science,

SWPS University of social sciences and humanities in Prague

Author: Marta Jabłońska (SWPS) Date: March 2015

JUST/2012/DPIP/AG/3641 - I-TREND WS3 Polish national survey report

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Table of Contents

Key findings and summaries ................................................................................................................ 4

Summary.......................................................................................................................................... 4

Key findings ..................................................................................................................................... 7

1. Methodology ................................................................................................................................... 9

2. Socio-demographic profile of respondents ................................................................................... 11

3. The pattern of use ......................................................................................................................... 16

3.1 NPS in the context of other psychoactive substances ............................................................ 16

3.2 Declaration of use of various NPS ........................................................................................... 19

3.3 The last NPS used by respondents: description ...................................................................... 23

4. Mode of purchase ......................................................................................................................... 67

5. Information about NPS .................................................................................................................. 72

TABLES ............................................................................................................................................... 74

Tables

Table 1 Declaration of use of NPS ......................................................................................................... 74

Table 2 Sex of respondents ................................................................................................................... 74

Table 3 Age of respondents ................................................................................................................... 75

Table 4 Education of respondents ......................................................................................................... 75

Table 5 Position of respondents on the labour market ........................................................................ 76

Table 6 Place of residence of respondents ........................................................................................... 76

Table 7 Income of respondents ............................................................................................................. 77

Table 8 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances ........................................................... 78

Table 9 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances for the first time ................................ 79

Table 10 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances over last 12 moths .......................... 79

Table 11 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances over last 30 days ............................. 80

Table 12 Declaration of use of selected NPS ......................................................................................... 82

Table 13 Frequency of use of selected NPS during last 12 months ...................................................... 82

Table 14 Frequency of use of selected NPS during last 30 days ........................................................... 82

Table 15 Last NPS used by respondents ................................................................................................ 83

Table 16 Frequency of use of selected NPS during last 12 months ...................................................... 84

Table 17 Circumstances of last NPS used .............................................................................................. 85

Table 18 Typical way of administration ................................................................................................. 87

Table 19 Indented effects ...................................................................................................................... 90

Table 20 Declaration of unpleasant feelings after taking NPS .............................................................. 92

Table 21 Description of unpleasant feelings after taking NPS .............................................................. 94

Table 22 Declaration of looking for medical assisatance ...................................................................... 97

Table 23 Information about the last used NPS ..................................................................................... 97

Table 24 Reason for use of selected NPS .............................................................................................. 97


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Table 25 Mode of purchase of selected NPS ......................................................................................... 98

Table 26 Frequency of ordering NPS from online shops ....................................................................... 98

Table 27 Money spent on NPS .............................................................................................................. 98

Table 28 Quantity of NPS ordered from online shops .......................................................................... 98

Table 29 Quantity of NPS received from the last online purchase ....................................................... 99

Table 30 Criteria of selection of online shops ....................................................................................... 99

Table 31 Number of online shops used by respondents ..................................................................... 100

Table 32 Source of information about NPS ......................................................................................... 100

Table 33 General opinion about NPS .................................................................................................. 101


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Key findings and summaries

SUMMARY

General information

Respondents were mostly male (2/3 in comparison with 1/3 female); rather young (with

approximately 90% under 26); mostly inhabitants of large cities; high school and university

students or young employees; with relatively low income (earned little or were provided for

by their parents).

The majority had taken NPS that they bought as a “legal high” and “designer drug”.

Approximately 1/3 to 2/5 declared never having taken substances sold in a head shop or smart

shop; that were supposed to imitate the effects of existing illegal drugs; sold as “bath salt” or

“incense” or “good, but not intended for human consumption (collector goods)” or sold under

fanciful marketed names like “NRG-3”, “Benzofury”, “Funky”, “Kokolino”. This data suggests

Polish respondents were more inclined towards the product itself rather than the substances

that make up the NPS.

Experience with substances

Almost all respondents had already had experience with alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and

hashish. More than half had also taken Amphetamine or Methamphetamine. Just over 2/5

declared taking NPS. Relatively popular substances were also ecstasy pills or MDMA powder

(taken by 1/3 of respondents), LSD or psilocybin mushrooms (taken by 1/4), cocaine (taken by

1/5), glue or paint solvents or other volatile substances or poppers and herbal extracts (taken

by 1/6). Only about 7% had taken heroin and Ketamine.

The age at which respondents first had contact with substances was mostly pre-adult, from

about 14 years old for alcohol; 15 for marijuana and hashish, solvents, glues, paints, volatile

substances and poppers; 16 for heroin or Buprenorphine and NPS; 17 for LSD or psilocybin

mushrooms and MDMA, ecstasy pill, Amphetamine or Methamphetamine; and 18 for cocaine.

Drug use over the past 12 months and past 30 days was highest for alcohol, marijuana and

hashish, MDMA, ecstasy, Amphetamine and Methamphetamine, and NPS. As is the case in

the general population, the most popular drugs were cannabinoids and stimulants.

Experience with New Psychoactive Substances

The use of NPS by respondents during their life was scattered. Over 1/3 of respondents had

used Mephedrone which was already delegalized in 2011. The next ten most popular

substances (each with relatively low frequencies) were 25C-NBOMe, 3-MMC, Pentedrone,

Ethylphenidate, 5F-UR-144, alpha-PVP, Bromo-dragonFLY, 3,4-DMMC, AM-2201 and

Buphedrone. On the other hand, approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of respondents declared using

products more than substances (“Kokolino”, “Sztywny Misza”, “Władziu”, “Funky”).


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It seems respondents who took part in the survey were mostly occasional users (who took

substances not more than 3 times during the last 30 days as well as past 12 months) and

frequent users (who took substances more than 20 times in the last 30 days as well as past 12

months).

By far the most frequently used NPS used last by respondents was Mephedrone (delegalized

in 2011). Of the substances which have not yet been delegalized, the ten most frequently

indicated ones used last by respondents were cathinones (3-MMC, Alpha-PVP, Pentedrone,

Ethcathinone), synthetic cannabinoids (AM-2201, UR-144), psychedelic hallucinogens (4-HO-

MET, 25I-NBOMe, 2C-P) and one dissociative anesthetic (MXE). In comparison to the Polish

National Medicine Institute report of 2013, where only substances from the cathinone and

synthetic cannabinoid groups were listed, a very great change has been observed. The most

interesting data concerns the number of respondents (almost half) who did not actually know

which substance they had used last time, which, together with the data concerning ever

having used NPS, suggests that Polish NPS users are more accustomed to marketed products

rather than substances under their scientific names.

Except for Methoxetamine, which was willingly taken alone as well as with friends (but mostly

at home), substances were used mainly in a social context (rather at home, sometimes in the

countryside, although less likely in a pub, club or at a party).

Most of the substances were primarily snorted (Mephedrone, 3-MMC, Alpha-PVP,

Pentedrone, Ethcathinone); Methoxetamine was snorted with the same frequency as

sublingually taken; 25I-NBOMe was taken mostly taken sublingually; cannabinoids (AM-2201,

UR-144) mainly smoked; 4-HO-MET and 2C-P rather ingested.

In general, all of the substances were taken mostly to bond with others and socialize or just to

get high. Almost all the substances were also taken to relax, except for ETH-CAT users. For

hallucinogen users (4-HO-MET, 25I-NBOMe, 2C-P) as well as MXE, it was very important also

to modify perception. For synthetic cannabinoid users (AM-2201, UR-144) the aim was also to

fight sleeplessness. 3-MMC and Alpha-PVP users declared a need to improve sexual

intercourse as an important reason for taking these substances. For Pentedrone users it was

also important to stimulate brain activity for learning or work and to provide a person with

energy. ETH-CAT users likely took it also to fight tiredness, stimulate brain activity and to

increase the positive effects of other drugs.

The adverse effects of using NPS were reported by almost half of respondents, mostly in the

case of using Pentedrone, least frequently with 4-HO-MET. The most reported adverse effects

were aggression and breathing difficulties or dyspnoea (both declared by approximately 1/4

of users); muscle aches, cramps, jaw clenching and hyperthermia (both declared by

approximately 1/6 of users).

More than 20% of respondents reported the following adverse effects: a strong craving to use

more (2C-P, ETH-CAT); depression or dejection (Pentedrone, ETH-CAT, Alpha-PVP,

Mephedrone); strong paranoia, fear or anxiety (Pentedrone, ETH-CAT, Alpha-PVP,


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Mephedrone); aggression (Alpha-PVP, Pentedrone, 2C-P, AM-2201, ETH-CAT); fatigue,

exhaustion or sleepiness (Alpha-PVP, Pentedrone, 2C-P, Mephedrone, ETH-CAT), muscle

aches, cramps or jaw clenching (AM-2201, Pentedrone); shaking (ETH-CAT, Pentedrone,

Alpha-PVP, 2C-P); seizures (Alpha-PVP, Pentedrone, ETH-CAT); greatly increased heart rate,

heart palpitations or chest pain (very high for AM-2201, 25I-NBOMe); breathing difficulties or

dyspnoea (ETH-CAT, Pentedrone, Alpha-PVP, Mephedrone); sweating (Pentedrone, Alpha-

PVP), hyperthermia (Pentedrone, Alpha-PVP, Mephedrone); dehydration and/or diarrhoea

(ETH-CAT, Pentedrone); itching, changes to skin or changed skin colour, spots, blisters or

rashes (Alpha-PVP, Pentedrone).

The most frequently reported negative effects were for Pentedrone, Alpha-PVP and ETH-CAT.

More than 90% of users had never searched for medical support due to the adverse effects of

taking NPS.

Respondents seem to be moderately informed about NPS use – about 50% of respondents

declares knowing enough about how they are administered, safe doses, doses that give the

required effect, risks to health, the effects of the drugs and legality. They consider 4 reasons

for using NPS as being rather important or very important (“I had the opportunity”, “just for

my personal curiosity”, “the effects are strong”, “it was easy for me to get”); 3 as moderately

important (“I like the effects – I’ve used it before”, “it’s less harmful”, “it is of better quality –

much purer, less cutting agent”) and 3 as not important (“it is difficult to detect during tests”,

“the use was not forbidden”, “it’s not so addictive”).

Online orders

Almost 1/3 of respondents was given the substance by someone for free, while almost 2/5

purchased it (including from friends who are not dealers – 14%; from a dealer – 12.2%; from

a shop – 17%; an online shop – 13.7% or an online classified ad – 1.1%).

Most respondents ordering NPS from online shops did it not more than 5 times. The median

amount spent on their last online order was PLN 130 (≈ €31.5) and the majority of respondents

ordered only one substance (approximately: 4.5 grams, 6 capsules, 10 pills, 55 ml or 10 parts

of a blotter). The most important reasons for selecting an online shop were: the advice of

other users; good past experiences as well as a good webpage profile where customers share

opinions. The amount of shops in which clients had ordered NPS during the last 12 months

was only 1 for more than half of respondents and not more than 5 for over 1/3.

Information about NPS

Respondents acquired information about NPS mostly from friends, family and acquaintances

and from web forums (approximately 1/3 each); almost 1/3 also declared not having any

information about NPS, about ¼ said they did not need it. Most respondents did not believe


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NPS to be less harmful, less addictive or of better quality than illicit drugs, thus a larger

proportion subscribes to the statement that the effects of NPS are stronger.

KEY FINDINGS

The majority of respondents consider New Psychoactive Substances as “legal highs”

and “designer drugs” – more as fanciful marketed products than substances sold under

their chemical names.

As Polish respondents are accustomed more to the terms “legal highs” and “designer

drugs” than NPS, only 42.5% declared to ever having uses New Psychoactive

Substances!

NPS are the 4th most popular group of substances ever taken in respondents’ lives as

well as in past 12 months or past 30 days (just after: alcohol; marijuana and hashish;

MDMA, ecstasy, Amphetamine and Methamphetamine) and are more popular than

LSD and psilocybin mushrooms; glues, paints, other volatile substances or poppers;

herbal extracts; cocaine; heroin and Buprenorphine.

The age of first contact with NPS is about 16 (Me) to 17 (M).

The most popular NPS (taken by 1/3 to 1/5 of respondents) were: Mephedrone

(delegalized in 2011) and designer drugs sold under marketed names (“Kokolino” –

salt, stimulant probably based mostly on Pentedrone [according to the National

Medicines Institute – NMI] or Mephedrone [according to users’ opinions]; “Sztywny

Misza” – a herbal smoking blend based on UR-144 [NMI]; “Władziu” – salt, stimulant

probably based on MPA – Methiopropamine [according to users’ opinions] or a

mixture of Ethcathinone, Alpha-PVP and 3-MMC [according to NMI]; “Funky” – salt,

stimulant probably based on MDPV – Methylenedioxypyrovalerone [according to

users’ opinions] or MDPBP [according to NMI]).

The ten most popular substances ever taken in respondents’ lives (with rather lower

frequencies – from 18.8% to 6.8%) were: 25C-NBOMe, 3-MMC, Pentedrone,

Ethylphenidate, 5F-UR-144, Alpha-PVP, Bromo-dragonFLY, 3,4-DMMC, AM-2201,

Buphedrone.

Almost half of NPS users did not know which substance they had taken the last time

(probably because they tried designer drugs – not research chemicals (RC) – and had

no information about their content). Over 1/6 of users claimed to have tried

Mephedrone (which had already been delegalized).

The ten most popular substances taken last time (with very low frequencies – from

7.1% to 0.7%) were: 3-MMC, Alpha-PVP, Pentedrone, 4-HO-MET, AM-2201,

Methoxetamine (MXE), UR-144, Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT), 25I-NBOMe and 2C-P.

https://www.google.pl/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=5&ved=0CEAQFjAE&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.busy-holandia-niemcy.pl%2FThread-MDPV-methylendioxypyrovaleron-opinie-dzia%25C5%2582anie-opis&ei=_O7uVIqqLojV7Qam1oCADg&usg=AFQjCNHzydIJYdYEfeC2f5NVyBKTV9cg0g&bvm=bv.86956481,d.ZGU



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Most of these substances were smoked or snorted, only few ingested or sublingually

taken.

Respondents tend to use substances mostly at home and rather with friends.

Most of the substances were taken to bond with other people and socialize, to get high

and to relax; in case of hallucinogens also to modify perception.

About half of respondents reported adverse effects after using NPS, mostly: aggression

and breathing difficulties or dyspnoea, muscle ache, cramps, jaw clenching and

hyperthermia. Pentedrone, Alpha-PVP and ETH-CAT seem to be the most harmful.

Legality and addictive potential were not important issues in considering using NPS.

The majority of respondents were given the substance by a friend; bought it from a

friend or in a regular shop. Ordering online was 4th choice.

The median amount spent in online shops during respondents’ last order was PLN 130

(≈ €31.5) and the majority of respondents ordered only one substance (4.5 grams, 6

capsules, 10 pills, 55 ml or 10 parts of a blotter).

Their main reasons for buying in particular online stores were: advice from other users;

previous experiences with these shops and good NPS profiles on forums.


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1. Methodology

The I-trend online survey was conducted between July and November 2014. The Welcome

text on the I-trend international website was translated into Polish. Participants were

informed about the main subject of the survey, its aim, the time needed to fill out the

questionnaire and they were assured about their complete anonymity. They were also given

information about the institution and the person responsible for conducting the survey in

Poland.

Participants

1,385 persons took part in the online survey:

Sex: 949 male, 436 female

Age: Mean=20.78; Median=19; Mode=17

Participants were recruited via various internet channels. The criteria for participation were: any experience with New Psychoactive Substances, Polish citizenship, age 16+.

Procedure

The promotion of the survey started on 7 July 2014, after the final version of the questionnaire was prepared and tested in pilot testing.

The first step was to send a request for participation with information and a link to the survey to more than 300 institutions for drug abuse (therapy facilities, local and regional governments, NGOs, harm reduction programs, persons working in drug prevention). Some of these institutions placed information and a link on their websites. Efficiency was low and during the first week there was about 0-1 questionnaire filled out per day.

The Facebook fanpage (website subpage) dedicated to the I-trend survey (https://www.facebook.com/pages/I-Trend/1447454772180886?ref=hl) began life on 14 July 2014. There was a fixed post put on the fanpage plus twice-weekly information about the survey being sent to about 20-30 Facebook fanpages on: New Psychoactive Substances, research chemicals, legal highs as well as illicit substances (mostly marijuana). After each piece of information was sent out on fanpages, the number of completed questionnaires increased (during the first three days to about 18 per day; after which is decreased to about 2 per day).

Additionally, on 24 July 2014, there was a topic created on both main Polish forums dedicated to New Psychoactive Substances: talk.hyperreal.info and forum.dopalamy.com. Forum users were asked to complete the online questionnaire and encouraged to ask questions. After three weeks, the given topic on forum.dopalamy.com was deleted by the administrator and access to the forum denied. Efficiency was difficult to measure, however about 30 forum users claimed to have completed the questionnaire and their number increased to about 2-4 per day in the first three weeks and decreased to 1-2 per day afterwards.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/I-Trend/1447454772180886?ref=hl


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At the same time, there was information and a link to the I-trend project posted on the website of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (SWPS): (http://swps.pl/warszawa/warszawa-aktualnosci/warszawa-doniesienia-ze-swiata-nauki/876-warszawa/warszawa/nauka-i-rozwoj/warszawa-biuro-badan-naukowych/11621-). Efficiency was low, with approximately about 1-2 completed questionnaires per day.

There was also letter sent again by e-mail at the end of September 2014 to about 100 therapy facilities with the request of encouraging their clients to complete the questionnaire. Efficiency was still low, about 1-2 questionnaires completed per day.

By that time, 156 questionnaires had been completed.

On 13 October, with the aid of the Marketing team at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (SWPS), promotion via Facebook Ads began. Respondents to whom the advertisement was shown were defined as: Polish citizens, age 16+. The advertisement was displayed to 6,500 Facebook users which resulted in 1,229 questionnaires being completed by 3 November (with an average of 58-59 per day).

All in all, 1,385 participants took part in the I-trend survey.

Evaluation

The most effective way of recruiting participants for the survey was by via Facebook Ads.

Almost 90% of completed questionnaires was obtained via an Ad dedicated to specific

Facebook users.

Any other used method would have probably sufficed if the final number of respondents had

not been so high. It is therefore recommended that for further similar surveys, advertisements

(like boxes and banners) should be used on popular websites and forums dedicated to

psychoactive substances or in the social media.

Unfortunately, no forum administrator or advertisement department in Poland answered any

requests for placing boxes and banners on their sites.


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2. Socio-demographic profile of respondents

Sex of respondents

More than 2/3 of respondents were male (68.5%), while only slightly over 1/3 women (31.5%).

Age of respondents

As respondents were no less than 16 years old, it is impossible to determine the lower age

limit for using NPS. It seems usage increases rapidly during the final years of high school or

equivalent (age: 16-17, percentage: 12.6 - 22.4), remains high just before and just after

finishing secondary education (age: 18-19, percentage: 14.9 - 11.3) and starts to decrease at

the age of 20-25 (percentage: 8 - 2.5). It could be assumed respondents were mostly high

school and university students or young employees.

68,5%

31,5%

male

female

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

12,6% 22,4% 14,9% 11,3% 8,0%

6,1%6,0%

3,0%4,0%

2,5%9,2%

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26+


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Education of respondents

Almost half of respondents declared that they had completed high school (47.8%). Slightly more than 1/10 who were approximately of the same age said they had completed a trade school (10.4%). Over 1/4 said they had completed primary school (27%). Every 17th respondent said they had a bachelor’s degree (6%), while every 11th said they held a master’s degree (8.8%).

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

27,0% 10,4% 47,8% 6,0%8,8%

primary school

trade school

high school

university (bachelor's degree)

university (master's degree)


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Position of respondents on the labour market

More than 7 out of 10 respondents are still students (70.9%) in: high school (55.2%) or

university (15.7%). Almost 1/5 (19.5%) is employed (employed – 14.1%; self-employed – 3.5%;

employed and self-employed in parallel – 1.9%). Only 1/17 (6%) is unemployed (registered or

not – 2.5% vs 3.5%); less than 1/100 (0.9%) retired (due to age, disability or still working –

respectively 0.3%, 0.1%, 0.5%). 0.4% is on maternity or parental leave.

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

55,2%

15,7%

14,1%

3,5%1,9%2,5%3,5%

0,3%0,1%

0,5%0,4%2,2%

other

on maternity or parentalleave

retired due to disability

working retired

retired

unemployed not registered

unemployed registered

employed and self-employedin parallel

self-employed

employed

student (university)

student (high school)


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Place of residence of respondents

Almost half of respondents live in large cities (47.9%), while another almost 1/3 in small or

medium cities (31.2%). A little more than 1/5 comes from villages (209%). This means that NPS

are only a little less available outside large agglomerations.

Income of respondents

Almost 1/3 of respondents did not want to give an answer to the question regarding earnings

(32.2%). 1/4 of respondents (25%) declared that they earn (or are given) less than PLN 500 a

47,9%

31,2%

20,9%

large city (>50000 inhabitants)or its close suburb

small or medium city (5000-50000 inhabitants)

village (<5000 inhabitants)

25,0%

7,7%

12,3%

9,8%

2,8% 2,6%1,2% 1,1% 0,6% 0,7% 0,3% 0,6%

3,0%

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%


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month. Around 1/13 (7.7%) earn between PLN 500 and 1,000. 1/8 (12.3%) earn between PLN

1,000 and 2,000. The earnings of almost 1/10 of respondents (9.8%) oscillate between PLN

2,000 and 3,000. Only slightly over 1/8 (12.3%) declare that they earn more than PLN 3,000

(from PLN 3,000 to 15,000 and above) per month. In general, these lower-than-average

earnings can be explained by the age of respondents – most of them are probably high school

or university students provided for by their parents. On the other hand, a considerable

proportion of them are probably employees just at the beginning of their professional carrier.


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3. Pattern of use

3.1 NPS in the context of other psychoactive substances

Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances

Almost all respondents (97.8%) had drunk alcohol at least once in their life. Nearly 95%

declared also smoking tobacco. With regards to illegal substances, marijuana and hashish are

indicated most frequently, by 93.2% of respondents. The vast majority (57.1%) admitted to

97,8%

94,9%93,1%

57,1%

42,5%

32,4%

25,9%

20,9%

16,2% 16,2%

7,4%7,0%

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

alcohol

tobacco

marijuana, hashish

amphetamine,methamphetamine

NPS (synthetic cannabinoidsincluded)

ecstasy pill, MDMA powder

LSD, psilocybin mushrooms

cocaine

solvents or glues or paints orother volatile substances,poppers

herbal extracts (Salvia, Kratom)

heroin

ketamine


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taking Amphetamine or Methamphetamine while almost 1/3 (32.4%) also claimed to have

taken ecstasy pills or MDMA powder. More than 1/4 (25.9%) declared taking LSD or psilocybin

mushrooms, slightly more than 1/5 (20.9%) also cocaine. About 1/6 of respondents (16.2%)

declared taking both: glue or paint solvents or other volatile substances or poppers and herbal

extracts. Heroin was used by 7.4% of respondents, also only 7% claimed to use Ketamine.

The most surprising result concerned the question on the usage of New Psychoactive

Substances (synthetic cannabinoids included) – an affirmative answer was given only by 42.5%

of respondents. However, all respondents thanks to the procedure used should have had

some with NPS. The reason for this may lie in the formulation of the question.

Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances for the first time

The age at which substances were first taken/used was lowest for alcohol (M=13.6; Me=14);

marijuana and hashish (M=15; Me=15) and glue or paint solvents or other volatile substances

and poppers (M=15.6; Me=15). The age at which heroin or Buprenorphine was taken for the

first time was close to 16 (M=16.5; Me=16) as well as for NPS (M=17.3; Me=16). The age at

which LSD and psilocybin mushrooms as well as MDMA, ecstasy pills, Amphetamine or

Methamphetamine were first taken was close to 17 (M=17.4; Me=17). The highest age of first

experience was for cocaine (M=18.9; Me=18).

0,0

2,0

4,0

6,0

8,0

10,0

12,0

14,0

16,0

18,0

20,0

13,615,0

15,616,5

17,3 17,6 17,418,9

14,015,0 15,0

16,0 16,017,0 17,0

18,0

arithmetic mean (M)

median (Me)


18/101

Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances (in life/last 12 months/last 30 days)

The usage of substances during a respondent’s whole life is presented above.

A large proportion of respondents (90.4%) drank alcohol during the last 12 months. as regards

illegal substances, marijuana and hashish were indicated most frequently, by more than 3/4

of respondents (79.3%). Over 2/5 (41.7%) admitted to having MDMA powder, ecstasy,

Amphetamine or Methamphetamine over this period of time. Over 1/4 (25.6%) said they had

taken NPS. About 1/6 (17%) declared taking LSD or psilocybin mushrooms, slightly more than

1/8 (12.1%) also cocaine. Heroin or Buprenorphine was taken by 4.6% of respondents. During

the past 12 months only 4.5% claimed to have used glue or paint solvents, volatile substances

or poppers.

Slightly over 3/4 of respondents (90.4%) also drank alcohol during the last 30 days. as regards

illegal substances, marijuana and hashish were still indicated the most frequently, by more

than half of respondents (56.9%). Just over 1/5 (21%) admitted to having MDMA powder,

ecstasy, Amphetamine or Methamphetamine over this period of time. About 1/7 (14.2%) said

that they had taken NPS. Only 5.8% declared taking LSD or psilocybin mushrooms, even fewer

(3.8%) cocaine. Heroin or Buprenorphine was taken by 2.5% of respondents. During the past

30 days only 2.1% claimed to have used glue or paint solvents, volatile substances or poppers.

0,0%

20,0%

40,0%

60,0%

80,0%

100,0%

76,6% 56,9% 21,0% 14,2% 5,8% 3,8% 2,5% 2,1%

90,4%

79,3%

41,7%25,6%

17,0% 12,1% 4,6% 4,5%

97,8%93,1%

60,1%

42,5%25,9% 20,9% 7,4% 16,2%

in 30 days

in 12 months

in life


19/101

3.2 Declaration of use of various NPS

Declaration of use of NPS

The highest proportion of respondents (56.1%) claimed to have taken NPS referred to as “legal

highs” and “designer drugs”. About 2/5 also declared taking substances described as: sold in

a head shop or a smart shop (41.9%), meant to be imitate the effects of existing illegal drugs

0,00% 20,00% 40,00% 60,00%

56,10%

41,90%

40,40%

39,90%

34,20%

31,80%

26,30%

14,40%

5,80%

apparently new on the market

sold in a tobacco shop

sold as a "research chemical"

sold online

sold under a fanciful marketingname (e.g. NRG-1, Benzofury,Funky, Cocolino etc.)

sold as a "bath salt", "incense"or "good not intended forhuman consumption (collectorgoods)"

meant to be imitating theeffects of existing illegal drugsbut definitely not being one ofthem

sold in a head shop or a smartshop

refered to as "legal highs" or"designer drugs"


20/101

but definitely not one of them (40.4%), sold as “bath salt”, “incense” or “goods not intended

for human consumption (collector goods)” (39.9%). Around 1/3 of respondents admitted to

taking substances sold under fanciful marketing names like NRG-3, Benzofury, Funky, Cocolino

(34.2%) and sold online (31.8%). Only slightly more than 1/5 declared taking substances sold

as a “research chemical (RC)” (26.3%). About 1/7 of respondents (14.4%) indicated taking

substances sold in tobacco shops. Only 5.6% claimed to take a substance that was apparently

new on the market.

Declaration of use of selected NPS (substances)

0,0% 5,0% 10,0% 15,0% 20,0% 25,0% 30,0% 35,0%

34,1%

18,8%

17,7%

16,0%

13,5%

13,5%

10,0%

8,2%

8,0%

7,4%

6,8%

6,7%

6,1%

5,9%

5,8%

5,6%

4,3%

4,2%

3,8%

1,7%

1,6%

1,5%

1,4%

1,2%

17,6%other

pMPPP

MDPBP (NRG1)

AB-FUBINACA

2C-E

2C-B

6-APB (benzo fury)

brephedrone

25I-NBOMe

ethcathinone (ETH-CAT)

2C-P

UR-144

4-HO-MET

methoxetamine (MXE)

buphedrone

AM-2201

3,4-DMMC

bromo-dragonFLY

alfa-PVP

5F-UR-144

ethylphenidate

pentedrone

3-MMC

25C-NBOMe

mephedrone


21/101

The most popular NPS was (the already delegalized) Mephedrone – more than 1/3 of

respondents declared taking it at least once in their life (34.1%). Of the substances that have

not yet been delegalized, the ten most frequently indicated ones (declared to being taken by

1/15 to 1/5 users) were: 25C-NBOMe (18.8%), 3-MMC (17.7%), Pentedrone (16%),

Ethylphenidate and 5F-UR-144 (both 13.5%), Alpha-PVP (10.0%), Bromo-dragonFLY (8.2%),

3,4-DMMC (8.0%), AM-2201 (7.4%) and Buphedrone (6.8%). A little less common were:

Methoxetamine (6.7%), 4-HO-MET (6.1%), UR-144 (5.9%), 2C-P (5.8%) and Ethcathinone

(5.6%). Less than 1/20 of respondents declared taking: 25I-NBOMe (4.3%), Brephedrone

(4.2%) and 6-APB (3.8%). Less than 1/50 of respondents declared taking: 2C-B (1.7%), 2C-E

(1.6%), AB-FUBINACA (1.5%), MDPBP (1.4%) and pMPPP (1.2%).

Declaration of use of selected NPS (products)

Over 1/4 of NPS users (27.7%) admitted trying “Kokolino” (salt, stimulant probably based

mostly on Pentedrone [according to the National Medicines Institute] or Mephedrone

[according to users’ opinions]). More than 1/5 (22.5%) tried “Sztywny Misza” (herbal smoking

blend based on UR-144 [NMI]) and a successive 1/5 (20.1%) also tried “Władziu” (salt,

stimulant probably based on MPA – Methiopropamine [according to users’ opinion] or a

mixture of Ethcathinone, Alpha-PVP and 3-MMC [according to NMI]). A little over 1/6 (17.5%)

declared trying “Funky” (salt, stimulant probably based on MDPV –

Methylenedioxypyrovalerone [according to users’ opinions] or MDPBP [according to NMI]).

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0% 27,7%

22,5%

20,1%

17,5%"Kokolino"

"Sztywny misza"

"Władziu"

"Funky"




22/101

Frequency of use of selected NPS (last 12 months/last 30 days)

About half of respondents (49.8%) declared taking the selected substances no more than 3

times (days) during the last 12 months. More than 1/10 (11.2%) declared taking it from 4 to 9

times (days). Less than 1/12 (7.9%) declared taking it from 10 to 19 times (days). Almost 1/3

(31.1%) claimed taking the selected substance 20 times (days) or more during the last 12

months.

The majority of respondents (59.1%) did not take the selected substance during the last 30

days. Over 1/6 (17.6%) declared taking it no more than 3 times (days). A little less than 1/10

(9.2%) took it from 4 to 9 times (days) during this period. A little above 1/20 (5.6%) declared

taking the substance from 10 to 19 times (days), while even more (8.5%) took it more than 20

times (days) during the last 30 days!

30 days

12 months0,0%5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

1 to 3 days4 to 9 days

10 to 19days 20 days and

more

17,6%

9,2%

5,6% 8,5%

49,8%

11,2%

7,9%

31,1%

30 days

12 months


23/101

3.3 Last NPS used by respondents: description

Last NPS used by respondents

The most popular NPS taken last by respondents was the already delegalized Mephedrone,

taken by more than 1/6 of respondents (17.7%). Of the substances which have not been

delegalized yet, the ten most frequently indicated that were last taken by respondents

0,0% 10,0% 20,0% 30,0% 40,0% 50,0%

17,7%

7,1%

3,4%

2,9%

2,4%

2,0%

1,8%

1,1%

0,8%

0,8%

0,7%

0,7%

0,5%

0,4%

0,4%

0,4%

0,4%

0,3%

0,2%

0,2%

0,2%

0,0%

0,0%

0,0%

9,5%

46,3%do not know

other

2C-E

5F-UR-144

pMPPP

Bromo-dragonFLY

MDPBP (NRG1)

3,4-DMMC

etylphenidate

AB-FUBINACA

25C-NBOMe

6-APB "Benzo Fury"

brephedrone

buphedrone

2C-B

2C-P

25I-NBOMe


UR-144

methoxetamine (MXE)

AM-2201

4-HO-MET

pentedrone

alfa - PVP

3-MMC

mephedrone


24/101

(declared to be taken by 1/140 to 1/14 of users) were: 3-MMC (7.1%), Alpha-PVP (3.4%),

Pentedrone (2.9%), 4-HO-MET (2.4%), AM-2201 (2.0%), Methoxetamine (1.8%), UR-144

(1.1%), Ethcathinone and 25I-NBOMe (0.8% both) and 2C-P (0.7% - indicated only by 8 users).

The remainder of substances declared as being taken last by only a few respondents were: 2C-

B (0.7% by 7 users), Buphedrone 0.5% by 5 users), Brephedrone, 6-APB, 25C-NBOMe, AB-

FUBINACA (all 0.4% by 4 users), Ethylphenidate (0.3% by 3 users), 3,4-DMMC, MDPBP and

Bromo-dragonFLY (all 0.2% by 2 users). pMPPP, 5F-UR-144 and 2C-E were not mentioned by

respondents.

Almost half of respondents (46.3%) did not know what substance they had taken last time!

Frequency of use of selected NPS during the last 12 months

TOTAL

3 out of 10 NPS users (29.1%) declared not taking selected substance at all during the last 12

months. Also, almost 1/3 (32.2%) declared taking the substance no more than 3 times (days)

during this period of time. More than 1/10 (10.7%) took the substance from 4 to 9 times (days).

Slightly more than 1/5 of respondents who used NPS (20.9%) declared taking the selected

substance more than 20 times (days) during the last 12 months.

Of the substances taken no more than 3 days during the last 12 months, the most popular

were: 25I-NBOMe (66.7%), 4-HO-MET (53.8%) and Methoxetamine (52.6%). The substances

moderately often used (from 4 to 9 days during last 12 months) were: Ethcathinone (33.3%),

Methoxetamine (26.3%) and 25I-NBOMe (22.2%). The substances quite often used (from 10

to 19 days) were: Pentedrone (19.4%), 2C-P (12.5%) and 4-HO-MET (11.5%). Substances most

frequently taken. (20 days and more during last 12 months) were: AM-2201 (50.1%), Alpha-

PVP (38.9%) and UR-144 (33.4%).

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

29,1%17,9%

5,3%13,9%9,7%

26,9%18,2%

5,3% 8,3%11,1%0,0%

12,5%

32,2%

35,8%

39,5%19,4%25,8%

53,8%

22,7%52,6%41,7%33,3%66,7%

50,0%

10,7%11,6%

19,7%

16,7%19,4%

3,8%

4,5%

26,3%

8,3%33,3%

22,2%

12,5%7,1%

10,5%6,6%

11,1%

19,4%

11,5%

4,5%

0,0%

8,3%

11,1%0,0%

12,5%20,9%24,2%28,9%

38,9%25,7%

4,0%

50,1%

15,8%33,4%

11,2%11,1%12,5%

20 days or more

10 to 19 days

4 to 9 days

1 to 3 days

Not at all


25/101

Mephedrone

During the past 12 months Mephedrone was not taken by more than 1/6 users (17.9%).

Around 1/3 declared taking it no more than 3 times (days). Slightly more than 1/10 claimed to

have taken it from 4 to 9 times (days). Only 1/14 admitted to taking it from 10 to 19 times

(days). More than 1/5 took the substance frequently, 20 times (days) or more during the last

12 months (20.9%).

3-MMC

The substance was not taken during the past 12 months by about 1/20 of users (5.3%). 4 out

of 10 users (39.5%) declared taking it no more than 3 times (days). 1/9 (11.6%) claimed to

have taken it between 4 and 9 times (days), another 1/10 (10.5%) between 10 and 19 times

(days).

Alpha-PVP

During the last 12 months the substance was not taken by about 1/7 of users (13.9%). Nearly

1/5 tried it no more than 3 days during this period (19.4%). Around 1/6 (16.7%) admitted to

taking Alpha-PVP between 4 to 9 times (days). 1/9 (11.1%) tried it 10 to 19 times. The largest

group, almost 2/5 of users (38.9%), took it 20 times or more.

Pentedrone

Nearly 1/10 of Pentedrone users did not take it at all during the past 12 months (9.7%). More

than 1/4 took it no more than 3 times (25.8%). About 1/5 took it between 4 to 9 times (19.4%)

and the same amount from 10 to 19 times. The substance had been taken more than 20 days

during the last 12 months by over 1/4 (25.7%).

4-HO-MET

More than 1/4 of users had not taken the substance (26.9%), however more than half took it

1 to 3 times (days) during 12 months (53.8%). Only around 1/25 declared taking it between 4

and 9 days (3.8%), about 1/9 took it 10 to 19 days (11.5%) and another 1/25 20 times (days)

or more (4%).


26/101

AM-2201

Nearly 1/5 of users claimed they had not taken this substance during the past 12 months

(18.2%), while over 1/5 took it from 1 to 3 times (22.7%). The substance had been taken from

4 to 9 times (days) by every 22nd user (4.5%) and the same percentage took it 10 to 19 times

(days). The highest proportion of respondents – slightly more than half – claimed to have tried

AM-2201 20 times (days) during the last 12 months (50.1%).

Methoxetamine (MXE)

Around 1/20 of users had not taken MXE during the last 12 months (5.3%). Over 1/2 tried it

no more than 3 times (52.6%). A little more than 1/4 declared taking it between 4 and 9 days

(26.3%). No one said they had taken it between 10 to 19 times (days). Around 1/6 of users

tried MXE 20 times or more (15.8%).

UR-144

1/12 of users said they had not taken the substance at all during the last 12 months (8.3%).

Exactly the same amount admitted to taking it 4 to 9 times and 10 to 19 times. About 1/3

declared taking UR-144 20 times (days) or more (33.4%).

Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT)

1/9 of respondents who admitted trying ETH-CAT at least once in their life, had not taken it

during the last 12 had taken use it betweeb 4 to 9 times (days). A similar percentage – 11.1%

and 11.2% (1/9) – had taken it between 10 to 19 times (days) and 20 days and over.

25I-NBOMe

No person declared taking it during the last 12 months. The highest amount of users – 2/3

(66.7%) – had tried it no more than 3 times (days). Over 1/5 admitted trying it between 4 to

9 times (22.2%), while no person declared taking it between 10 to 19 times (days). The

substance had been taken 20 times or more by every 9th user (11.1%).

2C-P

1/8 of 2C-P users declared not taking it during the past 12 months (12.5%). Exactly half of users

claimed trying it no more than 3 times (50%). An equal proportion of respondents (12.5% –

1/8) declared taking it both between 4 to 9 days, and between 10 to 19 days and 20 days and

more.


27/101

Circumstances of last NPS use

TOTAL

A little more than 3/4 of respondents (77.1%) claimed that the last time they took any

substance it was together with friends (35.5% outside or in the countryside; 30.0% at home;

11.6% at a club, pub or at a party). Over 1/7 (14.9%) claimed to have taken the substance

alone (2.7% outside or in the countryside; 10.6% at home; 1.6% at a club, pub or at a party).

Almost 1/25 (3.9%) declared having taken the substance at school or work; 1/25 (4.1%) other

circumstances for taking it.

Irrespectively of whether together with friends or alone, 38.2% of users claimed to have taken

the substances outside or in the countryside; 40.6% at home; 13.2% at a club, pub or at a

party.

Every 25th user (3.9%) declared having taken substances at school or at work. Almost the same

amount (4.1%) chose other circumstances.

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%TO

TAL

mef

ed

ron

3-M

MC

alfa

-PV

P

pen

thed

ron

e

4-H

O-M

ET

AM

-22

01

met

ho

xeta

min

e (M

XE)

UR

-14

4

eth

cath

ino

ne

(ETH

-CA

T)

25

I-N

BO

Me

2C

-P

35,525,8

17,1

30,619,4

42,3

27,326,3 25 25

30

34,240,8

36,1

29

23,145,5

26,3 25 33,355,6

75

11,6 20 22,4 8,3

16,1

11,5

9,1

0 8,3 0

11,1

0

2,75,3

5,3

11,1

10,65,8 13,2

16,7

16,1

23,1 9,1

42,1

16,7

1,6 0,52,6

3,20

3,9 2,6 5,6

9,7

9,1

8,3 011,1

04,1 5,8 3,9 2,8 6,516,7

22,211,1

0

other circumstances

at school/work

alone in a club, pub or at a party

alone at home

alone outside/in thecountryside

with friends in a club, pub or ata party

with friends at home

with friends outside/in thecountryside


28/101

Mephedrone

The vast majority (80%) of Mephedrone users claimed to have taken it together with friends

(regardless of the place of use: outside/countryside – 25.8%; home – 34.2%, club/pub/party –

20%); while only 11.6% declared taking it alone (also regardless of the place, subsequently:

outside/countryside – 5.3%, home – 5.8%, club/pub/party – 0.5%). Irrespectively of whether

together with friends or alone, 31.1% of Mephedrone users claimed to have taken it outside

or in the countryside; 40.5% at home; 20.5% at a club, pub or at a party. The substance seems

to be considered worthy to be used especially in company, regardless of the place. 2.6% of

Mepherdone users declared to have taken it at school or at work. 5.8% indicated other

circumstances.

3-MMC

The vast majority (80.3%) of these users claimed to have taken it together with friends,

regardless of the place; while only 15.8% took it alone. When this substance was taken outside

or in the countryside, it was always taken in company, never alone (17.1%). Irrespectively of

whether together with friends or alone, 54% declared taking the substance at home; while

25% preferred to take it at a club, pub or at a party. No person took it at school or at work.

3.9% indicated other circumstances.

The substance seems to be used mostly in company, preferably in isolated places like at home.

Alpha-PVP

Precisely 3/4 of Alpha-PVP users (75%) also preferred to use it together with friends

(regardless of the place). If alone, respondents declared taking it at home (16.7%), never

outside or in a crowded place. Only these respondents who were in company took the

substance outside or in the countryside (30.6%) or at a club, pub or at a party (8.3%).

Irrespectively of whether together with friends or alone, more than half of Alpha-PVP users

(52.8%) preferred taking it at home. About 1/6 (16.7%) declared to have taken the substance

also at school or at work. 2.8% declared taking it in other circumstances.

Pentedrone

Almost 2/3 of Pentedrone users (64.5%) preferred taking it together with friends (regardless

of the place). If alone (almost 1/5 – 19.3%), no person decided to take it outside or in the

countryside, while 19.4% of users took it if they were together with friends. Irrespectively of

whether in company or alone, 45.1% of users took the substance at home, another 19.3% at

a club, pub or at a party. Almost 1/10 declared having taken it at school or at work (9.7%).

6.5% indicated other circumstances.


29/101

Also, users of Pentedrone seem to be prefer to take the substance in company but in an

isolated place like home.

4-HO-MET

More than 3/4 of 4-HO-MET users claimed to have taken it together with friends, regardless

of the place (76.9%). If alone (23.1%), no person wanted to take it outside or in the countryside

or at a club, pub or at a party – all users declared only taking it at home. If in company,

respondents were more likely to use the substance outside or in the countryside (42.3%).

Irrespectively of whether with friends or alone, 46.2% chose to use it at home. No person tried

to use 4-HO-MET at school or at work.

AM-2201

The vast majority (81.9%) of AM-2201 users declared having taken it together with friends,

regardless of the place. If alone (only 9.1%), the substance was taken only at home, never

outside or at a party. For more than half of users (54.6%), irrespectively of whether in company

or alone, the most common way of taking the substance was at home. For those who took

AM-2201 in company, 27.3% also declared taking it outside or in the countryside; while only

9.1% declared taking it at a club, pub or at a party. Almost every 10th user declared having

taken the substance at school or at work.

Methoxetamine (MXE)

MXE users seem to have special preference regarding taking the substance in company –

almost the same amount of people declared taking it with friends (52.6%) as alone (47.4%),

regardless of the place. The most preferred place is at home (68.4%), less preferred is outside

or in the countryside (31.6%). No person declared having taken it at a club, pub or at a party.

Also, no one took it at school or at work.

UR-144

More than half of UR-144 users declared having taken it with friends rather than alone (58.3%

vs 16.7%), regardless of the place. If alone, UR-144 was taken only at home. If in company, the

same amount of people took it at home (25%) as outside or in the countryside (25%), while

only 9.1% chose a club, pub or a party for taking it. Irrespectively of whether alone or with

friends, most users declared home to be their preferred place for taken it (41.7%). Every 12th

person (8.3%) claimed to have taken UR-144 at school or at work. A very high percentage

(16.7%) declared other circumstances for taking it.


30/101


Ethcathinone users said they took it more frequently with friends (55.5%) than alone (22.2%)

regardless of the place. No one took it at a club, pub or at a party. Irrespectively of whether

alone or in company, almost half – 44.4% of respondents took it at home, while another 1/3

(33.3%) outside or in the countryside. No one took ETH-CAT at school or at work. More than

1/5 (22.2%) indicated other circumstances.

25I-NBOMe

No one declared taking it alone! 25I-NBOMe seems to be most often taken in company (about

3/4 of users – 77.8%), regardless of the place it was taken. More than half (55.6%) declared

taking it at home, about 1/9 (11.1%) outside or in the countryside and another 1/9 (11.1%) at

a club, pub or at a party. 11.1% of its users declared taking it at school or at work. Another

11.1% chose other circumstances than those listed.

2C-P

No one declared taking 2C-P alone, 100% took it in company. Also, nobody claimed to have

taken it at a club, pub or at a party. 1/4 of its users declared taking it outside or in the

countryside (25%), 3/4 at home (75%). No one took 2C-P at school or at work.


31/101

Typical way of taking substances

0 20 40 60 80 100

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa - PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144

etkatynon (ETH-CAT)

25I-NBOMe

2C-P

48,4

16,8

9,2

25

6,5

3,8

95,5

15,8

83,3

11,1

12,5

48,2

89,5

88,2

88,9

93,5

23,1

52,6

16,7

77,8

11,1

12,5

16,2

16,8

28,9

11,1

6,5

65,4

26,3

11,1

87,5

8,4

6,8

2,6

0

0

0

22,7

5,3

16,7

6,3

4,2

1,3

2,8

0

3,8

13,6

5,3

8,3

6,2

5,8

5,3

6,5

19,2

0

57,9

8,3

88,9

12,5

2,3

3,7

2,6

5,6

0

3,8

4,5

10,5

0

22,2

0

0

1,8

1,1

0

0

0

9,1

12,5

1,7

2,6

1,3

2,8

0

7,7

0

0,9

1,1

0

5,6

0

0

9,1

5,3

Vaporizer

Rectal

Chasing the dragon

Injection

Sublingual

Waterpipe

Bong

Ingestion

Snorting

Smoking


32/101

TOTAL

In general, the most popular ways of using any substance were smoking (almost half of

respondents – 48.4%) and snorting (also almost half – 48.2%). Almost 1/6 (16.2%) said that

they ingested the substances. Bongs were used by every 12th user (8.4%); waterpipes and

sublingually by every 16th respondent (6.3% and 6.2%). 2.3% of NPS users said they injected;

another 1.8% “chased the dragon”. The rectal method was used by 1.7% of users; vaporizer

by 0.9%.

Mephedrone

The vast majority of Mephedrone users (89.5%) snort it. Every 6th user also tried smoking and

ingesting it (16.8% each). 6.8% used a bong and 4.2% a waterpipe. 5.8% took iy sublingually.

Other methods that were rarely applied were: injection – 3.7%; rectal – 2.6%, “chasing the

dragon” and vaporizer – 1.1% each).

3-MMC

The vast majority (88.2%) snorted the substance. More than 1/4 of users (28.9%) said that

they ingested it, while every 9th respondent (9.2%) smoked 3-MMC. 1/20 of users used the

sublingual method (5.3%). 2.6% used a bong and the same proportion injected. The rectal

method and waterpipe were applied by 1.3% of respondents.

Alpha-PVP

Almost 9/10 of Alpha-PVP users (88.9%) snorted it, another 1/9 (11.1%) ingested and 1/4

(25%) smoked it. An equal proportion of respondents (5.6%) said they took the substance:

sublingually, rectally, by injection and also by “chasing the dragon”. 2.8% applied the rectal

method, the same percentage used a waterpipe.

Pentedrone

A little more than 9/10 users of Pentedrone (93.5%) snorted it. A similar percentage (6.5%) of

users mentioned using the following methods: by smoking, by ingesting and sublingually.

4-HO-MET

Almost 2/3 of users (65.4%) declared using this substance by ingesting it. Slightly less than 1/4

(23.1%) snorted it and almost 1/5 (19.2%) took it sublingually. Every 13th 4-HO-MET user

(7.7%) took it rectally. An equal proportion (3.8%) of users administered the substance by:

smoking, injecting it or using a waterpipe.


33/101

AM-2201

The vast majority (95.5%) said that they smoked AM-2201. Slightly more than 1/4 (22.7%)

used a bong; about 1/7 (13.6%) used a waterpipe; 1/11 (9.1%) a vaporizer and the same

proportion “chased the dragon”. Every 22nd user (4.5%) injected AM-2201.

Methoxetamine (MXE)

Slightly less than 3/5 (57.9%) took it sublingually. A little more than half (52.6%) of users

snorted MXE; over 1/4 (26.3%) ingested it. More than 1/10 of users (10.5%) injected the

substance. An equal percentage (5.3%) of users used either a bong, waterpipe or vaporizer.

UR-144

More than 4/5 users of UR-144 (83.3%) smoked. Snorting and using a bong were indicated by

about 1/6 of UR-144 users (16.7%). Every 12th user (8.3%) used waterpipe as well as took it

sublingually.

Ethcathinone

Over 3/4 of users (77.8%) snorted Ethcathinone. More than 1/5 (22.2%) injected it. Every 9th

person ingested it.

25I-NBOMe

The substance was mostly taken sublingually (88.9%). 1/9 of users declared ingesting it as well

as snorting it.

2C-P

The vast majority (87.5%) admitted to ingesting 2C-P. Every 8th person (12.5%) said they had:

smoked it, snorted it, taken it sublingually and “chased the dragon”.


34/101

Intended effects

TOTAL

In general, NPS users tend to take them most often in order to bond with others and socialize

– this answer was given by more than 6 out of 10 respondents (61.4%). More than half of

respondents admit to taking such a substance to get high (54.8%), slightly more than 2/5 take

it to relax (42.4%) or to modify perception (41.9%). Every 4th NPS user claims to take these

substances to alley or alleviate anxiety (24.5%). Every 7th user takes NPS to fight tiredness

(14.2%), every 9th to stimulate brain activity for learning or work (11%). Less than 1 out of 10

respondents admit to taking NPS to: improve sexual intercourse (9.9%), gain extra energy

(9.5%), soothe pain (8.8%), fight sleeplessness (8.7%), increase the positive effects of another

drug (7.2%) or reduce the negative effects of another drug (6.1%). Every 14th user indicated

other reasons for taking the substance (7.2%).

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

61,4%

54,8%

42,4% 41,9%

24,5%

14,2%11,0%9,9% 9,5% 8,8% 8,7% 7,2% 6,1% 7,2%


35/101

Mephedrone

Mephedrone was taken most often to bond with other people and socialize, declared by 2/3

of respondents (66.3%). Almost the same percentage claimed to take it to get high (63.7%).

Almost half of Mephedrone users took it to relax (45.8%). For over 1/3 modifying perception

was important (36.8%). Slightly more than 1/4 declared taking Mephedrone to allay or

alleviate anxiety (26.3%), about the same amount took it to fight tiredness (24.7%). 1/6 to

1/10 of users declared taking it to: gain more energy (16.8%), soothe pain (13.7%), improve

sexual intercourse (12.6%), fight sleeplessness (12.1%) and stimulate brain activity for learning

or work (11.1%). Less than 1/10 of users declared taking it to reduce the negative effects of

another drug (8.9%) or to increase the positive effects of another drug (7.9%). For 5.8% there

were other reasons for taking it.

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

66,3%63,7%

45,8%

36,8%

26,3%24,7%

11,1%12,6%16,8%

13,7%12,1%7,9% 8,9%

5,8%


36/101

3-MMC

The most important reason for taking 3-MMC was the need to get high (72.4%). For 1/3 of

users the most important reason was to bond with others and socialize (65.8%). Over 1/3

needed it to relax (35.5%) and modify perception (34.2%). Slightly more than 1/4 declared

taking it to improve sexual intercourse (26.3%). Almost 1/5 took it to allay or alleviate anxiety

(18.4%). For about 1/8 to 1/10, taking it was important to: fight tiredness (13.2%), gain energy

(11.8%) or stimulate brain activity for learning or work (10.5%). Less than 1/12 of users

declared taking 3-MMC to: increase the positive effects of another drug (7.9%), reduce the

negative effects of another drug (6.6%), soothe pain (3.9%) or fight sleeplessness (2.6%). For

3.9% other reasons were important.

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

65,8%

72,4%

35,5%34,2%

18,4%13,2%

10,5%

26,3%

11,8%

3,9% 2,6%7,9% 6,6%

3,9%


37/101

Alpha-PVP

For nearly 3/4 of users the most important reason for taking Alpha-PVP was to get high

(72.4%). Almost 2/3 took it to bond with others and socialize (65.8%). For slightly more than

1/3 of users, they took it to: relax (35.5%) or modify perception (34.2%). Over 1/4 declared

taking Alpha-PVP to improve sexual intercourse (26.3%). Nearly 1/5 took it to allay or alleviate

anxiety (18.4%). 1/8 to 1/10 took it to: fight tiredness (13.2%), gain energy (11.8%) or stimulate

brain activity for learning and work (10.5%). Less than 1/12 took it to: increase the positive

effect of another drug (7.9%), reduce the negative effect of another drug (6.6%), soothe pain

(3.9%) or fight sleeplessness (2.6%). Other reasons were important for 3.9% of users.

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

65,8%

72,4%

35,5%34,2%

18,4%13,2%

10,5%

26,3%

11,8%

3,9% 2,6%7,9% 6,6%

3,9%


38/101

Pentedrone

The most important reason for taking Pentedrone was to bond with others and socialize

(64.5%). Nearly half of respondents also claimed to take Pentedrone to get high (48.4%). For

more than 2/5 the reason for taking the substance was to stimulate brain activity for learning

or work (41.9%). Over 1/4 of respondents declared taking it to: allay or alleviate anxiety (29%);

relax, modify perception, fight tiredness and gain energy (each indicated by 25.8% of

respondents). Almost 1/5 claimed to take Pentedrone to improve sexual intercourse (19.4%),

about 1/8 also to increase the positive effects of another drug (12.9%). Less than 1/15

declared taking it to: reduce the negative effects of another drug (6.5%); soothe pain or fight

sleeplessness (both 3.2%). 3.2% gave other reasons.

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

64,5%

48,4%

25,8%25,8%29,0%

25,8%

41,9%

19,4%25,8%

3,2% 3,2%

12,9%6,5%

3,2%


39/101

4-HO-MET

The most important reason for taking 4-HO-MET, indicated by more than 3/4 of respondents

(76.9%) was to modify perception. For about 2/3 of users taking it was important to bond with

others and to socialize (65.4%). Around 2/5 declared taking it to relax (42.3%) and to get high

(38.5%). Less than 1/6 claimed to have used it to: improve sexual intercourse, soothe pain and

increase the positive effects of another drug (each indicated by 15.4% of respondents). For

1/13 it was taken to fight tiredness (7.7%). Slightly less than 1/25 declared taking 4-HO-MET

to: allay or alleviate anxiety, stimulate brain activity for learning or work or fight tiredness

(each indicated by 3.8% of users). For 7.7% other reasons were important.

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

65,4%

38,5%42,3%

76,9%

3,8%7,7%

3,8%

15,4%

0,0%

15,4%

3,8%

15,4%

0,0%

7,7%


40/101

AM-2201

Nearly 2/3 of users declared taking AM-2201 to bond with others and socialize (63.6%), 3/5

took it to get high (59.1%), 1/2 to relax (50%) and 2/5 to modify perception (40.9%). Less than

1/3 claimed to take it to: allay or alleviate anxiety (31.8%) or fight sleeplessness (27.3%).

Around 1/7 declared taking it to: stimulate brain activity for learning or work and improve

sexual intercourse (each indicated by 13.6% of users). About 1/11 claimed to take AM-2201

to increase the negative effects of another drug (9.1%). 1/22 admitted to taking it to: fight

tiredness or soothe pain (4.5% each).

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

63,6%59,1%

50,0%

40,9%

31,8%

4,5%

13,6%13,6%

0,0%4,5%

27,3%

9,1%

0,0% 0,0%


41/101

Methoxetamine (MXE)

The most important reason for taking MXE was to modify perception – this answer was chosen

by more than 8 out of 10 respondents (84.2%). Nearly half of respondents also claimed to have

taken Pentedrone to bond with others and socialize as well as to relax (each indicated by

47.4%). For slightly less than 1/3 the reason for taking the substance was to get high (31.6%).

Over 1/4 of respondents declared taking it to allay or alleviate anxiety and improve sexual

intercourse (each indicated by 21.1% of respondents). Slightly less than 1/6 claimed to take

MXE to stimulate brain activity for learning or work (15.8%), more than 1/10 to soothe pain

and reduce the negative effects of another drugs (10.5% each). Over 1/20 declared taking it

to: fight tiredness, gain energy, increase the positive effects of another drug (each indicated

by 5.3% of respondents).

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

47,4%

31,6%

47,4%

84,2%

21,1%

5,3%

15,8%21,1%

5,3%10,5%

0,0%5,3%

10,5%

0,0%


42/101

UR-144

The most important reason for taking UR-144 was a need to get high (83.3%). For slightly more

than 2/3 of users the most important reason was to relax (66.7%). Half of respondents needed

it to bond with others and to socialize (50%). Over 2/5 declared taking it to modify perception

(41.7%), 1/4 took it to fight sleeplessness (25%), 1/6 to allay or alleviate anxiety (16.7%).

Approximately 1/12 declared taking UR-144 to: fight tiredness, stimulate brain activity for

learning or work, improve sexual intercourse or to soothe pain (each indicated by 8.3% of

users).

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

50,0%

83,3%

66,7%

41,7%

16,7%

8,3% 8,3% 8,3%

0,0%

8,3%

25,0%

0,0% 0,0% 0,0%


43/101


The most important reason for taking ETH-CAT, indicated by 2/3 of users, was a need to bond

with others and socialize (66.7%). Over half of respondents declared taking it to get high

(55.6%). More than 2/5 took it to fight tiredness (44.4%), 1/3 took it to stimulate brain activity

for learning or work (33.3%). Slightly more than 1/5 claimed taking the substance to: modify

perception, allay or alleviate anxiety or to increase the positive effects of another drug (each

22.2%). For 1/9 of ETH-CAT users it was taken to: relax, gain energy and to reduce the negative

effects of another drug (each option indicated by 11.1% of users). 11.1% took it for other

reasons.

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

66,7%

55,6%

11,1%

22,2%22,2%

44,4%

33,3%

0,0%

11,1%

0,0% 0,0%

22,2%

11,1%11,1%


44/101

25I-NBOMe

More than 3/4 of 25I-NBOMe users took it in order to bond with others and socialize (77.8%).

Over 2/5 declared taking it to modify perception, 1/3 to relax (33.3%). More than 1/5 admitted

taking it to get high (22.2%). Allaying or alleviating anxiety, fighting tiredness, stimulating brain

activity for learning or work, improving sexual intercourse, gaining energy and increasing the

positive effects of another drug were important for 1/9 respondents for each (11.1%).

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

77,8%

22,2%

33,3%

44,4%

11,1%11,1%11,1%11,1%11,1%

0,0% 0,0%

11,1%

0,0%

11,1%


45/101

2C-P

3/4 of 2C-P users took it to bond with others and socialize and to modify perception (75%

each). Almost 2/5 of users declared to have taken it to get high (37.5%). 1/4 of 2C-P users

admitted to taking it to relax (25%). 1/8 claimed to take it to: stimulate brain activity for

learning or work and to increase the positive effects of another drug (each indicated by 12.5%

of users). 1/4 indicated other reasons (25%).

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%

90,0%

100,0%

75,0%

37,5%

25,0%

75,0%

0,0% 0,0%

12,5%

0,0% 0,0% 0,0% 0,0%

12,5%

0,0%

25,0%


46/101

Declaration of unpleasant feelings after taking NPS

In general, more NPS users felt no negative effects during their last use of the substance (52%).

On the other hand a number of users claimed to have had unpleasant feelings after taking NPS

(48%).

The substances indicated by most respondents as having the least negative effects were:

Mephedrone (57.9%), 3-MMC (56.6%) and ETH-CAT (55.6%). Negative effects were not

indicated by about 7 to 8 users or more out of 10 for: MXE (68.4%), 4-HO-MET (73.1%), 25I-

NBOMe (77.8%) and UR-144 (83.3%).

The substances indicated as causing negative effects to a greater extent were: Alpha-PVP

(52.8%) and Pentedrone (67.7%).

AM-2201, and 2C-P were indicated as causing and not causing negative effects by an equal

percentage of users (50% for both options).

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

48,0% 42,1% 43,4%52,8%

67,7%

26,9%

50,0%

31,6%16,7%

44,4%

22,2%

50,0%

52,0% 57,9% 56,6%47,2%

32,3%

73,1%

50,0%

68,4%83,3%

55,6%

77,8%

50,0%

no

yes


47/101

Description of unpleasant feelings after taking NPS

Unpleasant intensive hallucinations, delusions

In general, a relatively small amount of NPS users claimed to suffer from hallucinations and

delusions (2.1%). The highest proportion – about 1/9 – declared having hallucinations and

delusions after taking ETH-CAT, about 1/12 after taking UR-144 (8.3%) and 3-MMC (7.9%),

slightly less than 1/30 after taking Mephedrone and AM-2201 (3.2% each). No person had

unpleasant intensive hallucinations or delusions after taking: Alpha-PVP, 4-HO-MET, AM-

2201, MXE, 25I-NBOMe and 2C-P.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

2,1%3,2%

7,9%

0,0%

3,2%

0,0%0,0%0,0%

8,3%11,1%

0,0%0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


48/101

Strong craving to use more

Less than 1/7 of NPS users declared feeling a strong craving to take more after taking any NPS

(13.5%). The highest amount of users – 1/4 of them – felt this after taking 2C-P (25%). About

1/5 felt like taking more after taking ETH-CAT (22.2%) and AM-2201 (18.2%). Slightly less –

about 1/6 – suffered from a strong craving after using Alpha-PVP (16.7%). Around 1/10

declared craving for more: 25I-NBOMe (11.1%), Pentedrone (9.7%) and Mephedrone (8.9%).

About 1/20 claimed to crave more 3-MMC and MXE (each indicated by 5.3%), slighltly less –

over 1/25 – after taking 4-HO-MET (3.8%). No person felt a strong craving for more after taking

UR-144.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

13,5%

8,9%

5,3%

16,7%

9,7%

3,8%

18,2%

5,3%

0,0%

22,2%

11,1%

25,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


49/101

Depression, dejection

In general, only slightly more than 1/8 of users felt depression and dejection after using all

NPS. The highest amount – nearly 2/5 – felt it after taking Pentedrone (38.7%); slightly less –

1/3 – after taking ETH-CAT (33.3%) and Alpha-PVP (30.6%). Slightly more than 1/5 had these

feelings after taking Mephedrone (21.1%). Between 1/6 to 1/7 of users felt depression or

dejection after taking: UR-144 (16.7%) and 3-MMC (14.5%). 1/11 had this feeling after taking

AM-2201. No person felt depression and dejection after taking: 4-HO-MET, MXE, 25I-NBOMe

and 2C-P.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

13,0%

21,1%

14,5%

30,6%

38,7%

0,0%

9,1%

0,0%

16,7%

33,3%

0,0%0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


50/101

Strong paranoia, fear, anxiety

Strong paranoia, fear and anxiety were unpleasant feelings experienced after taking all NPS

by over 1/7 of users (15.2%). Almost 1/3 of users claimed feeling it most after taking:

Pentedrone (32.3%) and Alpha-PVP (30.6%). Around 1/7 declared feeling it after using:

Mephedrone (16.8%), UR-144 (16.7%), 3-MMC (15.8%). 1/9 claimed to feel strong paranoia,

fear and anxiety after using 25I-NBOMe (11.1%), another 1/11 felt it after taking AM-2201

(9.1%). No person felt it after taking: MXE, ETH-CAT and 2C-P.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

15,2%16,8%15,8%

30,6%32,3%

3,8%

9,1%

0,0%

16,7%

0,0%

11,1%

0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


51/101

Aggression

Aggression was felt by 1/4 of respondents after taking any NPS (25.1%). The highest

proportion of users – nearly 2/5 – claimed to feel aggression after taking Alpha-PVP (38.9%)

and Pentedrone (35.5%). Between 1/4 to 1/5 felt it after taking: 2C-P (25%), AM-2201 (22.7%),

ETH-CAT (22.2%) and Mephedrone (19.5%). 1/6 felt it after taking UR-144 (16.7%), while

around 1/9 felt it after taking: 3-MMC (11.8%), 4-HO-MET (11.5%) and 25I-NBOMe (11.1%).

Only about 1/20 of users felt aggression after taking MXE (5.3%).

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

25,1%

19,5%

11,8%

38,9%

35,5%

11,5%

22,7%

5,3%

16,7%

22,2%

11,1%

25,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


52/101

Extreme agitation and excitement, sleeplessness

Comparatively few NPS users – about 1/14 – claimed to feel extreme agitation, excitement

and sleeplessness after taking any NPS (7.2%). The highest proportion of users – about 1/6 –

felt it after taking UR-144 (16.7%) and AM-2201 (16.1%). About 1/9 felt it after taking Alpha-

PVP (11.1%), nearly 1/11 felt it after taking Mephedrone (8.9%). No one claimed feeling

agitation, excitement and sleeplessness after taking: 3-MMC, 4-HO-MET, AM-2201, MXE, ETH-

CAT, 25I-NBOMe and 2C-P.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

7,2%8,9%

0,0%

11,1%

16,1%

0,0%0,0%0,0%

16,7%

0,0%0,0%0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


53/101

Fatigue, exhaustion, sleepiness

In general, about 1/6 of users claimed to feel fatigue, exhaustion and sleepiness after taking

all NPS (16%). Over 1/3 of users claimed to feel it after taking Alpha-PVP (36.1%) and

Pentedrone (35.5%). Between 1/4 to 1/5 felt it after: 2C-P (25%), Mephedrone (22.6%), ETH-

CAT (22.2%) and 3-MMC (19.7%). 1/6 felt it after using UR-144 (16.7%), while only about 1/20

felt it after MXE (5.3%). No person felt fatigue, exhaustion and sleepiness after taking: 4-HO-

MET, AM-2201 and 25I-NBOMe.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

16,0%

22,6%19,7%

36,1%35,5%

0,0%0,0%

5,3%

16,7%

22,2%

0,0%

25,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


54/101

Muscle aches, cramps, jaw clenching

Over 1/6 of users claimed to have felt muscle aches, cramps and jaw clenching after taking all

NPS (17.1%). About 1/5 admitted to having these feelings after taking: AM-2201 (22.7%),

Pentedrone (22.6%) and Alpha-PVP (19.4%). Around 1/6 claim to feel this way after taking 3-

MMC (17.1%) and UR-144 (16.7%). Less than 1/7 felt it after taking Mephedrone (14.2%),

about 1/8 after taking 2C-P (12.5%). 1/9 of users claimed to have felt muscle aches, cramps

and jaw clenching after taking ETH-CAT and 25I-NBOMe (both indicated by 11.1% of users).

From 1/13 to 1/19 felt it after taking 4-HO-MET (7.7%) and MXE (5.3%).

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

17,1%14,2%

17,1%19,4%

22,6%

7,7%

22,7%

5,3%

16,7%

11,1%11,1%

12,5%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


55/101

Shaking

In general, about 1/8 of NPS users declared that they had been shaking while using NPS

(13.1%). This was mentioned by more than 2/5 of ETH-CAT users (44.4%) and nearly 1/3 of

Pentedrone (32.3%) and Alpha-PVP (30.6%) users. 1/4 declared experiencing this after taking

2C-P (25%), nearly 1/5 after taking Mephedrone (18.9%). 1/9 admitted experiencing this after

taking 3-MMC (11.8%), 1/11 after AM-2201 and 1/12 after UR-144 (8.3%). Slightly more than

1/20 claimed to have been shaking after taking MXE (5.3%). No person experienced this after

taking 4-HO-MET and 25I-NBOMe.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

13,1%

18,9%

11,8%

30,6%32,3%

0,0%

9,1%

5,3%

8,3%

44,4%

0,0%

25,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


56/101

Seizures

In general, nearly 1/6 of users claimed to have suffered from seizures after taking all NPS

(15.5%). The highest amount of seizures – declared by 1/3 of users – was noted after taking

Alpha-PVP (33.3%). Over 1/4 admitted to having seizures after taking Pentedrone (25.8%),

over 1/5 after taking ETH-CAT (22.2%). Between 1/6 to 1/8 claimed to have had seizures after

taking : Mephedrone (17.9%), UR-144 (16.7%), 3-MMC (13.2%) and 2C-P (12.5%). Around 1/25

of users claimed to have had seizures after taking AM-2201 (4.5%) and 4-HO-MET (3.8%). No

person suffered from seizures after taking MXE or 25I-NBOMe.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

15,5%17,9%

13,2%

33,3%

25,8%

3,8%4,5%

0,0%

16,7%

22,2%

0,0%

12,5%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


57/101

Loss of control in muscles and movement problems

1/11 of NPS users claimed to have felt a loss of muscle control and movement problems after

taking any NPS (9%). These symptoms were also noted by 1/7 to 1/9 users of: Alpha-PVP

(13.9%), AM-2201 (13.6%), 25I-NBOMe (11.1%); and around 1/11 to 1/12 users of:

Pentedrone (9.7%), Mephedrone (9.5%) and UR-144 (8.3%). Around 1/15 claimed to have

experienced this after taking 3-MMC (6.6%), less than 1/25 after 4-HO-MET (3.8%). No person

experienced this after taking: MXE, ETH-CAT and 2C-P.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

9,0%9,5%6,6%

13,9%

9,7%

3,8%

13,6%

0,0%

8,3%

0,0%

11,1%

0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


58/101

Headaches

Only 1/10 of users declared having headaches after taking all NPS (10.1%). The highest amount

– 1/6 (16.7%) – concerned Alpha-PVP users. Around 1/10 had headaches after taking MXE

(10.5%) and Pentedrone (9.7%). Between 1/15 to 1/25 claimed to have suffered from

headaches after taking: Mephedrone (6.8%), 3-MMC (5.3%) and AM-2201 (4.5%). No person

had headaches after taking: 4-HO-MET, UR-144, ETH-CAT, 25I-NBOMe and 2C-P.

Nausea, vomiting

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

10,1%

6,8%5,3%

16,7%

9,7%

0,0%

4,5%

10,5%

0,0%0,0%0,0%0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

14,0%

9,5%7,9%

13,9%12,9%

3,8%

18,2%

10,5%

16,7%

11,1%

0,0%

12,5%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


59/101

In general, 1/7 of users declared feeling nausea and/or vomitting after taking any NPS (14%).

The highest amount was noted by 1/5 to 1/10 users of: AM-2201 (18.2%), UR-144 (16.7%),

Alpha-PVP (13.9%), Pentedrone (12.9%), 2C-P (12.5%), ETH-CAT (11.1%), MXE (10.5%) and

Mephedrone (9.5%), while about 1/12 declared to experiencing this after using 3-MMC (7.9%).

Less than 1/25 admitted to feel nausea and/or vomittig after taking 4-HO-MET. No one felt it

after using 25I-NBOMe.

Greatly increased heart rate, palpitations, chest pain

In general, about 1/8 of NPS users declared having a greatly increased heart rate, palpitations

and chest pain (12.1%). More than 1/3 claimed to experienced this after taking AM-2201

(36.4%) and slightly more than 1/5 after taking 25I-NBOMe (22.2%). Between 1/8 to 1/10 felt

the same after taking: Pentedrone (12.9%), 2C-P (12.5%) and MXE (10.5%). Between 1/11 to

1/20 claimed to have had a greatly increased heart rate, palpitations and chest pain after

taking: Mephedrone (8.9%), UR-144 (8.3%), 4-HO-MET (7.7%), Alpha-PVP (5.6%) and 3-MMC

(5.3%). No one experienced it after taking ETH-CAT.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

12,1%

8,9%

5,3%5,6%

12,9%

7,7%

36,4%

10,5%8,3%

0,0%

22,2%

12,5%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


60/101

Breathing difficulties, dyspnoea

A relatively high amount – almost 1/4 of NPS users – had breathing difficulties and dyspnoea

after taking any NPS (23.6%). The highest proportion – about 2/5 – experienced this after

taking: ETH-CAT (44.4%), Pentedrone (41.9%) and Alpha-PVP (38.9%). Around 1/5 had

breathing difficulties and dyspnoea after taking Mephedrone (22.6%) and 3-MMC (19.7%), 1/6

after taking UR-144 (16.7%). Between 1/8 to 1/13 experienced this after taking: 2C-P (12.5%),

MXE (10.5%), AM-2201 (9.1%) and 4-HO-MET (7.7%). No one experienced breathing

difficulties and dyspnoea after taking 25I-NBOMe.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

23,6%22,6%19,7%

38,9%

41,9%

7,7%9,1%

10,5%

16,7%

44,4%

0,0%

12,5%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


61/101

Sweating

Sweating was noted by 1/10 of users of all NPS (10.3%). Over 1/5 felt this after taking

Pentedrone (22.6%) and Alpha-PVP (22.2%). 1/8 to 1/12 claimed to have sweated after taking:

2C-P (12.5%), ETH-CAT (11.1%), 3-MMC (10.5%), Mephedrone (10%) and UR-144 (8.3%). No

one experienced this after taking: 4-HO-MET, AM-2201, MXE and 25I-NBOMe.

Hyperthermia

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

10,3%10,0%

10,5%

22,2%22,6%

0,0%0,0%0,0%

8,3%11,1%

0,0%

12,5%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

16,9%

23,2%

18,4%

30,6%

41,9%

3,8%

9,1%

0,0%

16,7%

11,1%11,1%

0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


62/101

In general, 1/6 of all NPS users declared having had hyperthermia after taking a substance

(16.9%). More than 2/5 experienced this after taking Pentedrone (41.9%), almost 1/3 after

taking Alpha-PVP and nearly 1/4 after taking Mephedrone (23.2%). Between almost 1/5 to 1/6

had these problems after taking 3-MMC (18.4%) and UR-144 (16.7%). Between 1/9 to 1/11

experienced this after taking: ETH-CAT and 25I-NBOMe (both by 11.1%) and AM-2201 (9.1%).

Less than 1/25 experienced it after taking 4-HO-MET. No one felt this after taking MXE and

2C-P.

Dehydration and/or diarrhoea

Dehydration and/or diarrhoea were problems noted by around 1/7 of all NPS users. The

highest amount of respondents – 1/3 – claimed to have had these problems after taking ETH-

CAT (33.3%). 1/4 noted these problems while under the influence of Pentedrone (25.8%).

Between about 1/6 to 1/8 had these problems after taking: Mephedrone (17.9%), Alpha-PVP

and UR-144 (both indicated by 16.7% of users), AM-2201 (13.6%) and 2C-P (12.5%). Between

1/12 and about 1/25 declared feeling dehydrated and/or having diarrhoea after taking: 3-

MMC (7.9%), MXE (5.3%) and 4-HO-MET (3.8%). No one had these problems after taking 25I-

NBOMe.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

14,0%

17,9%

7,9%

16,7%

25,8%

3,8%

13,6%

5,3%

16,7%

33,3%

0,0%

12,5%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


63/101

Problems with sight

Only about 1/20 of all NPS users admitted to noting problems with their sight after taking NPS

(4.9%). These problems were noted by 1/6 of Pentedrone users (16.1%), 1/10 of Mephedrone

users (10%), 1/11 users of 3-MMC (9.2%), 1/12 users of UR-144 and only 1/18 users of Alpha-

PVP (5.6%). No problems with sight were mentioned by users of: 4-HO-MET, AM-2201, MXE,

ETH-CAT, 25I-NBOMe and 2C-P.

Itches, changes to skin, changed skin colour, spots, blisters, rash

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

4,9%

10,0%9,2%

5,6%

16,1%

0,0%0,0%0,0%

8,3%

0,0%0,0%0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

11,1%

7,9%

13,2%

27,8%

22,6%

0,0%0,0%0,0%0,0%

11,1% 11,1%

0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


64/101

Itches, changes to skin, changed skin colour, spots, blisters and rashes appeared in 1/9 of NPS

users (11.1%). Over 1/4 claimed to have these problems after taking Alpha-PVP (27.8%),

whereas over 1/5 after taking Pentedrone (22.6%). Between about 1/8 and 1/9 had these

kinds of problems after taking: 3-MMC (13.2%), ETH-CAT (11.1%) and 25I-NBOMe (11.1%).

1/13 noticed itches, changes to their skin, changed skin colour, spots, blisters and rashes after

taking Mephedrone (7.9%). No one declared having these problems after taking: 4-HO-MET,

AM-2201, MXE, UR-144 and 2C-P.

Other

Only about 1/20 of NPS users claimed to have other problems than those listed above during

their last use of any substance (5.3%). The highest amount of respondents – almost 1/5 –

declared having other problems after taking Pentedrone (19.4%). Between 1/9 and 1/18

noticed other problems after taking: 25I-NBOMe (11.1%), UR-144 (8.3%), 3-MMC (7.9%),

Mephedrone (6.8%) and Alpha-PVP (5.6%). No one experienced problems other than those

listed above after taking: 4-HO-MET, AM-2201, MXE, ETH-CAT and 2C-P.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%

35,0%

40,0%

45,0%

50,0%

5,3%6,8%7,9%

5,6%

19,4%

0,0%0,0%0,0%

8,3%

0,0%

11,1%

0,0%

TOTAL

mephedrone

3-MMC

alfa-PVP

penthedrone

4-HO-MET

AM-2201

methoxetamine (MXE)

UR-144


25I-NBOMe

2C-P


65/101

Declaration of looking for medical assistance

More than 9 out of 10 users did not look for any medical assistance due to experiencing

unpleasant feelings after taking NPS (93.6%). Only about 1/16 said that they had looked for

such assistance (6.4%).

Information about last used NPS

6,4%

93,6%

yes

no

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

On their legality or illegality

On their effects

On their risks to health

On the doses to take to get the requiredeffect

On the safe dose to take

On the routes of administration

55,6%

57,4%

50,0%

54,1%

47,3%

75,0%

14,9%

27,7%

24,3%

24,4%

23,7%

17,4%

9,9%

8,0%

14,8%

11,2%

13,6%

3,4%

19,6%

7,0%

10,9%

10,3%

15,4%

4,2%

yes

rather yes

rather no

no


66/101

Most respondents considered themselves as having enough information about many aspects

of taking NPS. More than 9 out of 10 users (92.4%) claimed to have sufficient information on

the ways of administering (“yes” and “rather yes”), while only 1/13 (7.6%) admitted to have

insufficient information (“no” and “rather no”). More than 7 out of 8 users claimed to have

sufficient data about the safe dose to take (71%) in comparison to nearly 3 out of 10 who

claimed to have insufficient data (29%). Almost 8 out of 10 users claimed to know enough

about the doses to take to get the required effect (78.5%), while over 2 out of 10 felt like they

did not know enough (21.5%). Over 7 out of 10 users considered themselves as having enough

information on the risks to health of NPS (74.3%), less than 3 out of 10 claimed not to know

enough (25.7%). More than 8 out of 10 persons claimed to have sufficient information on the

effects of NPS (85.1%), while more than 1 out of 10 admitted to have insufficient information

(15%). Around 7 out of 10 users claimed to know enough about the legality or illegality of NPS

(70.5%), another 3 out of 10 felt like they did not know enough (29.5%).

Reason for taking selected NPS

The reasons indicated as not important for taking a substance (starting from the least

important) were: “it is not so addictive” (52.2%), “the use was not forbidden” (57.3%) and “it

is difficult to detect during urinary and saliva tests” (65.2%).

The reasons indicated as rather important or very important for taking a substance (starting

from the most important) were: “I had the opportunity to do so” (75.1%), “for my personal

curiosity” (73.9%), “the effects are strong” (68.1%), “it was easy for me to get it” (67.7%), “I

like the effects – used it before” (56.3%), “it is less harmful” (51.6%), “it is of better quality –

much more pure, less cutting agent ” (51.3%).

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

The use was not forbidden

It was easy to get for me

It is difficult to detect during tests…

I had the opportunity (through…

Just for my personal curiosity

I like the effects (used it before)

It is less harmful

It is of better quality (much pure,…

It is not so much addictive

The effects are strong

57,3%

32,3%

65,2%

24,9%

26,1%

43,8%

48,4%

48,7%

52,2%

31,8%

26,6%

36,9%

20,4%

35,9%

32,6%

24,6%

30,8%

26,3%

25,0%

33,3%

16,1%

30,8%

14,4%

39,2%

41,3%

31,7%

20,8%

25,0%

22,7%

34,8%

Not important

Rather important

Very important


67/101

4. Mode of purchase

Mode of purchase of selected NPS

Almost 1/3 of respondents declared that they had been given the substance for free (32.9%).

Almost 3/5 (58%) bought it (14% from a friend who is not a dealer; 12.2% from a dealer; 13.7%

from a shop online); 1.1% from a classified ad online and 17% from a regular shop). Every 11th

user purchased it from some other source (9.1%).

Frequency of ordering NPS from an online shop

32,9%

14,0%

12,2%

13,7%

1,1%

17,0%

9,1%

been given by someone for free

bought from a friend who is nota dealer

bought it from a dealer

bought it from a shop online

bought it from a classified adonline

bought it from a shop (notonline)

other

0,0%

10,0%

20,0%

30,0%

40,0%

50,0%

60,0%

70,0%

80,0%76,5%

4,8%7,9%

3,8%1,8%

5,0%

None

One time

2 to 5 times

6 to 10 times

11 to 20 times

More than 20 times


68/101

Over 3/4 of respondents never bought a substance from an online shop (76.5%). Almost 1/20

bought NPS this way only once (4.8%), 1/13 purchased it 2 to 5 times (7.9%), nearly 1/25

purchased it 6 to 10 times (3.8%), less than 1/50 – 11 to 20 times (1.8%) and 1/20 more than

20 times.

Money spent on NPS

Due to outliers, the mean amount spent on online orders cannot be considered as reliable

(PLN 551.24). The median was PLN 130, while the mode was slightly lower and amounted to

PLN 100.

0,00 PLN

100,00 PLN

200,00 PLN

300,00 PLN

400,00 PLN

500,00 PLN

600,00 PLN551,24 PLN

130,00 PLN100,00 PLN

mean (M)

median (Me)

modal (Mo)


69/101

Quantity of NPS ordered from online shops

Over 2/5 of NPS online buyers made orders of only one substance in one go (41.8%), almost

the same amount did this for 2 to 5 substances (38.6%). 1/5 of buyers made an online order

for more than 5 substances at once.

Quantity of NPS received from last online purchase

Also in this case, mean values are not reliable due to outliers. The median for respondents

who made online NPS orders, bought in one go was: 4.5 grams of powdered substances, 6

capsules, 10 pills or tablets, 55ml of liquid substances and 10 parts of a blotter.

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

19,5%

38,6%

41,8%

1

2 to 5

more than 5

0

50

100

150

200

250

g (only forpowder)

pcs (capsule) pcs(pill/tablet)

ml (only forliquid)

pcs (parts ofblotter)

28,95

73,1757,58

225,38

154,85

4,5 6 10

55

10

Mean (M)

Median (Me)


70/101

Criteria of selection of online shops

The most important criteria for the selection of an online shop during the last 12 months was

the advice of other users. This option was indicated by more than half of online shop buyers

(51.8%). About 2/5 relied on their good experience with the shop (43.8%) and a good profile

on webpages where clients share their opinions (39.4%). Between 1/3 and 1/4 persons relied

on: better quality of NPS in a bricks and mortar shop (29.5%), cheaper price than in other

shops (28.3%) and discrete packets in which the substance was shipped (25.1%). More than

1/5 chose an online shop due to the secure payment method (22.3%). Almost 1/5 admitted

not having any specific criteria (18.3%). For 1/8 to 1/9 it was important that the shipment was

more reliable than on other sites (16.7%), the online shop specialized in one substance (15.1%)

and the specific NPS was not available in other online shops (11.2%). 1/33 admitted that the

substance a person was looking for could not have been sent to his/her country (3.2%). 1.6%

chose other criteria.

0,0% 10,0% 20,0% 30,0% 40,0% 50,0% 60,0%

51,8%43,8%

39,4%29,5%

28,3%25,1%

22,3%18,3%

16,7%15,1%

11,2%3,2%

1,6%

Other

No online shop sends to my country the New Psychoactive Substance I was looking for

The New Psychoactive Substance I was looking for was not available in other online shops

It is specialized in one substance

The shipment was more reliable than other sites

No specific criterion

Its use the site of a Secure payment method

The New Psychoactive Substance are shipped in discrete packets

This was cheaper than other online shops

The New Psychoactive Substance are of better quality than other online shops

Good profile at pages where clients share their experience (fe: SafeOrScam)

I had a good experience with the shop already

I followed the advice of other users


71/101

Number of online shops used by respondents

During the last 12 months, more than half of buyers ordered the substances only from one

online shop (50.6%). Over 1/3 claimed ordering substances in 2 to 5 shops (36.7%), while

about 1/28 in 5 to 10 shops (3.6%). 1/11 of NPS buyers admitted to ordering substances from

more than 10 shops (9.2%).

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

9,2%3,6%

36,7%

50,6%

1

2 to 5

5 to 10

more than 10


72/101

5. Information about NPS

source of information about NPS

Information about NPS was being taken mostly from friends, family and acquaintances (almost

1/3 of respondents thought so – 29.4%), while roughly the same amount declared not having

any information about NPS (29%). Roughly the same percentage of respodndents said they

gained information from web forums (28.4%). About 1/4 claimed not to need any information

(24.4%). Over 1/9 got information from dealers (11.8%), 1/12 from online shops (8.4%), 1/16

from TV and radio (6.1%) and only 1/25 from newspapers and magazines (4%). Around 1/11

declared other sources of information.

0,0%

5,0%

10,0%

15,0%

20,0%

25,0%

30,0%29,4%29,0%28,4%

24,4%

11,8%

8,4%

6,1%

4,0%

9,5%

fromfriends/family/acquaintances

I don’t have any information

from a web forum

I don’t need any information

from my dealer

from an online shop

from TV/radio

from newspapers, magazines

other


73/101

General opinions about NPS

Almost 8 out of 10 respondents believe that the effects of some NPS are stronger than illicit

drugs (connected answers: “yes, it’s true for most of them” and “yes, it’s true for a few of

them” – 78.3%) in comparison to only 2 of 10 who claim the sentence is not true (21.7%).

7-8 out of 10 respondents claim it is not true that NPS are: less addictive, of better quality and

less harmful than illicit substances (respectively, 66.6%, 68.1%, 76.4%).

0% 20% 40% 60% 80%100%

New Psychoactive Substanceare less harmful than illicit

substances

New Psychoactive Substanceare of better quality than

illicit substances (much pure,less cutting agent)

New Psychoactive Substanceare less addictive than other

illicit drugs

The effects of NewPsychoactive Substance are

stronger than other illicitdrugs

8,2%

14,0%

11,0%

38,3%

15,4%

17,9%

22,4%

40,1%

76,4%

68,1%

66,6%

21,7%

Yes, it’s true for most of them

Yes, it’s true for a few of them

No, it’s not true


74/101

TABLES

Q1 Have you ever used a psychoactive substance that was… (several answers are possible)?

Frequency Percent

Referred to as “legal highs” or “designer drugs” 777 56.1%

Sold as a “research chemical” (RC) 364 26.3%

Sold under a fanciful marketing name (e.g. NRG-3, Benzofury, Funky, Cocolino etc.)

474 34.2%

Sold as a “bath salt”, “incense”, or “goods not intended for human consumption (collector goods)”

553 39.9%

Supposed to imitate the effects of existing illegal drugs, but definitely not being one of them

560 40.4%

Sold online 440 31.8%

Sold in a head shop or smart shop 581 41.9%

Was apparently new on the market 81 5.8%

Sold in a tobacco shop 199 14.4%

Total 4,029

Table 1 Declaration of use of NPS

Q2 You are…

Frequency Percent

A man 949 68.5%

A women 436 31.5%

Total 1,385 Table 2 Sex of respondents


75/101

Q3 How old are you?

Frequency Percent

16 174 12.6%

17 310 22.4%

18 207 14.9%

19 157 11.3%

20 111 8.0%

21 84 6.1%

22 83 6.0%

23 41 3.0%

24 56 4.0%

25 34 2.5%

26 19 1.4%

27-28 23 1.7%

29-30 23 1.7%

31-35 26 1.9%

36-40 12 0.9%

41-45 1 0.1%

46-50 0 0%

<51 24 1.7%

Total 1,385 100% Table 3 Age of the respondents

Q29 What is the highest academic education you have attained?

Frequency Percent

Categories specific for each country

Podstawowe (basic) 374 27.0%,

zasadnicze zawodowe (basic vocational) 144

10.4%

Średnie (middle) 662 47.8%

Licencjackie (bachelors) 83 6.0%

wyższe (higher) 122 8.8%

Total 1,385 100% Table 4 Education of respondents


76/101

Q30 Currently, what is your position on the labour market?

Frequency Percent

Employed 195 14.1%

Self-employed (licence holder, businessperson) 49

3.5%

Employed and self-employed in parallel 26

1.9%

Retired 4 0.3%

Working retired 2 0.1%

Retired due to disability 7 0.5%

Student (high school) 765 55.2%

Student (university) 218 15.7%

On maternity or parental leave 6

0.4%

Unemployed – registered at the Job Centre 35

2.5%

Unemployed – not registered at the Job Centre 48

3.5%

Other 30 2.2%

Total 1,385 100% Table 5 Position of respondents on the labour market

Q31 How would you describe your place of residence?

Frequency Percent

A large city (>50,000 inhabitants) or its close suburbs (less than 30 minutes using transport) 664 47,9%

A small or medium city of around 5,000 to 50,000 inhabitants 432 31,2%

A village (<5,000 inhabitants) far from a large city (more than 30 minutes using transport) 289 20,9%

Total 1,385 100% Table 6 Place of residence of respondents


77/101

Q34 What is your monthly income from all resources available to you (including income,

allowances, etc.)?

Income Frequency Percent

PLN 500 and less 346 25.0%

PLN 501 – 1,000 107 7.7%

PLN 1,001 – 2,000 171 12.3%

PLN 2,001 – 3,000 136 9.8%

PLN 3,001 – 4,000 39 2.8%

PLN 4,001 – 5,000 36 2.6%

PLN 5,001 – 6,000 16 1.2%

PLN 6,001 – 7,000 15 1.1%

PLN 7,001 – 8,000 9 0.6%

PLN 8,001 – 9,000 10 0.7%

PLN 9,001 – 10,000 4 0.3%

PLN 10,001 – 15,000 9 0.6%

above 15,000 PLN 41 3.0%

No answer 446 32.2%

Total 1,385 100% Table 7 Income of respondents


78/101

Q4 In your life, which of these substances have you already used?*

Frequency Percent

Alcohol 1,355 97.8%

Tobacco (including hookah / shisha) 1,315 94.9%

Marijuana/hashish 1,290 93.2%

Ecstasy pills or MDMA powder 449 32.4%

Cocaine 290 21.0%

Amphetamine (Speed) or Methamphetamine (Ice)

791 57.1%

LSD or psilocybin mushrooms / magic mushrooms 359 25.9%

Heroin or Buprenorphine in (Subutex, Suboxone), Opium

102 7.4%

Solvents, glues, paints or other volatile substances, Poppers

224 16.2%

Ketamine 97 7.0%

Herbal extracts (Salvia, Kratom) 224 16.2%

New Psychoactive substances, synthetic cannabinoids included (Spice, etc.)

588 42.5%

Other 323 23.4%

Total 7,407

Table 8 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances

* Possible answer yes or no. Frequency of yes-answers.


79/101

Q4A When did you try this product for the FIRST TIME in your life

Mean Median

Alcohol 13.61 14

Marijuana/hashish 14.96 15

Heroin or Buprenorphine (Bunondol, Suboxone, Transtec), Opium

16.45 16

LSD or psilocybin mushrooms / magic mushrooms 17.60 17

Cocaine 18.85 18

New Psychoactive substances, synthetic cannabinoids included

17.28 16

MDMA, Ecstasy pills, Amphetamine (Speed) or Methamphetamine

17.41 17


15.58 15

Table 9 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances for the first time

Q4B Did you take it during the last 12 months*

Frequency Percent

Alcohol 1,252 90%

Marijuana/hashish 1,098 79%


64 5%

LSD or psilocybin mushrooms / magic mushrooms 235 17%

Cocaine 168 12%


354 26%


578 42%


63 5%

Total 3,812

Table 10 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances over the last 12 moths



80/101

Q4C Did you take it during the last 30 days*

Frequency Percent

Alcohol 1,061 77%

Marijuana/hashish 788 57%


34 2%

LSD or psilocybin mushrooms / magic mushrooms 81 6%

Cocaine 52 4%


197 14%


291 21%


29 2%

2,533

Table 11 Declaration of use of various psychoactive substances over last 30 days



81/101

Q5 Did you take any of the following New Psychoactive Substances?*

Frequency Percent

UR-144 82 5.9%

AM-2201 103 7.4%

Pentedrone 221 16.0%

3,4-DMMC 111 8.0%

Brephedrone 58 4.2%

pMPPP 17 1.2%

MDPBP (NRG1) 19 1.4%

Alfa-PVP 138 10.0%

3-MMC 245 17.7%

Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT) 78 5.6%

Mephedrone 472 34.1%

6-APB "Benzofury" 53 3.8%

Methoxetamine (MXE) 93 6.7%

2C-P 80 5.8%

Buphedrone 94 6.8%

Ethylphenidate 187 13.5%

25C-NBOMe 261 18.8%

Bromo-dragonFLY 114 8.2%

5F-UR-144 187 13.5%

AB-FUBINACA 21 1.5%

2C-E 22 1.6%

2C-B 23 1.7%

25I-NBOMe 60 4.3%


82/101

4-HO-MET 85 6.1%

funky 242 17.5%

kokolino 384 27.7%

włodziu 278 20.1%

sztywny misza 311 22.5%

other 243 17.6%

Total 4,282 Table 12 Declaration of use of selected NPS

* several answers were possible, but no more than 10, if a respondent took more then 10, he

or she was asked to select the 10 which he/she took most often

Q5.1 During the last twelve months, on how many days have you taken selected substances?

Frequency Percent

1 to 3 days 535 49.8%

4 to 9 days 120 11.2%

10 to 19 days 85 7.9%

20 days or more 334 31.1%

1,074 Table 13 Frequency of use of selected NPS during the last 12 months

Q5.2 During the last 30 days, on how many days have you taken selected substances?

Frequency Percent

I did not use a New Psychoactive Substance in the last month

635 59.1%

1 to 3 days 189 17.6%

4 to 9 days 99 9.2%

10 to 19 days 60 5.6%


1,074 Table 14 Frequency of use of selected NPS during the last 30 days


83/101

Q6 What was the new psychoactive substance you used last time?

Frequency Percent

UR-144 12 1.1%

AM-2201 22 2.0%

Pentedrone 31 2.9%

3,4-DMMC 2 0.2%

Brephedrone 4 0.4%

pMPPP

MDPBP (NRG1) 2 0.2%

Alfa-PVP 36 3.4%

3-MMC 76 7.1%

Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT) 9 0.8%

Mephedrone 190 17.7%

6-APB "Benzofury" 4 0.4%

Methoxetamine (MXE) 19 1.8%

2C-P 8 0.7%

Buphedrone 5 0.5%

Ethylphenidate 3 0.3%

25C-NBOMe 4 0.4%

Bromo-dragonFLY 2 0.2%

5F-UR-144

AB-FUBINACA 4 0.4%

2C-E

2C-B 7 0.7%

25I-NBOMe 9 0.8%

4-HO-MET 26 2.4%

other 102 9.5%

Do not know 497 46.3%

Total 1,074 Table 15 Last NPS used by respondents

Q 8.1 During the last twelve months, on how many days have you taken the selected new

psychoactive substance?

Frequency Percent

Not at all 313 29.1%

1 to 3 days 346 32.2%

4 to 9 days 115 10.7%

10 to 19 days 76 7.1%


Total 1,074


84/101

Table 16 Frequency of use of selected NPS during the last 12 months

Not at all 1 to 3 days 4 to 9 days 10 to 19 days 20 days or more

1 UR-144 8.3% 41.7% 8.3% 8.3% 33.40%

2 AM-2201 18.2% 22.7% 4.5% 4.5% 50.10%

3 Pentedrone 9.7% 25.8% 19.4% 19.4% 25.70%

4 3,4-DMMC 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.00%

5 Brephedrone 0.0% 75.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.00%

7 MDPBP (NRG1) 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.00%

8 Alfa-PVP 13.9% 19.4% 16.7% 11.1% 38.90%

9 3-MMC 5.3% 39.5% 19.7% 6.6% 28.90%

10 Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT)

11.1% 33.3% 33.3% 11.1% 11.20%

11 Mephedrone 17.9% 35.8% 11.6% 10.5% 24.20%

12 6-APB "Benzofury"

0.0% 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.00%

13 Methoxetamine (MXE)

5.3% 52.6% 26.3% 0.0% 15.80%

14 2C-P 12.5% 50.0% 12.5% 12.5% 12.50%

15 Buphedrone 0.0% 40,0% 0.0% 40.0% 20.00%

16 Ethylphenidate 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 33.3% 66.70%

17 25C-NBOMe 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.00%

18 Bromo-dragonFLY 50.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.00%

20 AB-FUBINACA 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 50.0% 25.00%

22 2C-B 28.6% 57.1% 0.0% 14.3% 0.00%

23 25I-NBOMe 0.0% 66.7% 22.2% 0.0% 11.10%

24 4-HO-MET 26.9% 53.8% 3.8% 11.5% 4.00%

25 other 24.5% 24.5% 11.8% 6.9% 32.30%

26 Do not know 44.9% 28.8% 7.8% 4.0% 14.50% Total 29.1% 32.2% 10.7% 7.1% 20.90%

Q 9 What were the circumstances in which you last took the substance which you selected?

Frequency Percent

Alone at home 114 10.6%

With friends at your own home or their home 322 30.0%

Alone at a club, pub or party 17 1.6%

With friends at a club, pub or party 125 11.6%

Alone outside/in the countryside 29 2.7%

With friends outside/in the countryside 381 35.5%

At school/work 42 3.9%

Other circumstances 44 4.1%

Total 1,074


85/101

Table 17 Circumstances of last NPS use

Alone at home

With friends at your own home or their home

Alone at a club, pub or party

With friends at a club, pub or party

Alone outside/in the countryside

With friends outside/in the countryside

At school/work

Other circumstances

1 UR-144 16.7% 25.0% 0.0% 8.3% 0.0% 25.0% 8.3% 16.7%

2 AM-2201 9.1% 45.5% 0.0% 9.1% 0.0% 27.3% 9.1% 0.0%

3 Pentedrone 16.1% 29.0% 3.2% 16.1% 0.0% 19.4% 9.7% 6.5%

4 3,4-DMMC 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0% 0.0% 0.0%

5 Brephedrone 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

7 MDPBP (NRG1) 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0%

8 Alfa-PVP 16.7% 36.1% 0.0% 8.3% 0.0% 30.6% 5.6% 2.8%

9 3-MMC 13.2% 40.8% 2.6% 22.4% 0.0% 17.1% 0.0% 3.9%

10 Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT) 11.1% 33.3% 0.0% 0.0% 11.1% 22.2% 0.0% 22.2%

11 Mephedrone 5.8% 34.2% 0.5% 20.0% 5.3% 25.8% 2.6% 5.8%

12 6-APB "Benzofury" 25.0% 75.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

13 Methoxetamine (MXE) 42.1% 26.3% 0.0% 0.0% 5.3% 26.3% 0.0% 0.0%

14 2C-P 0.0% 75.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0%

15 Buphedrone 20.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 20.0% 60.0% 0.0% 0.0%

16 Ethylphenidate 66.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 33.3% 0.0%

17 25C-NBOMe 0.0% 50.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.,0%

18 Bromo-dragonFLY 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0%

20 AB-FUBINACA 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0%

22 2C-B 14.3% 28.6% 0.0% 28.6% 0.0% 14.3% 14.3% 0.0%

23 25I-NBOMe 0.0% 55.6% 0.0% 11.1% 0.0% 11.1% 11.1% 11.1%

24 4-HO-MET 23.1% 23.1% 0.0% 11.5% 0.0% 42.3% 0.0% 0.0%

25 other 17.6% 19.6% 1.0% 4.9% 3.9% 42.2% 5.9% 4.9%

26 Do not know 7.6% 27.4% 2.2% 9.3% 2.2% 44.3% 3.8% 3.2%

total 10.6% 30.0% 1.6% 11.6% 2.7% 35.5% 3.9% 4.1%


86/101

Q10 What were the typical ways of administers the substance the last time you took it?

(several answers are possible)

Frequency Percent

Smoking 520 48.4%

Waterpipe 68 6.3%

Bong 90 8.4%

Vaporizer 10 0.9%

Chasing the dragon 19 1.8%

Sublingual 67 6.2%

Ingestion 174 16.2%

Snorting 518 48.2%

Rectal 18 1.7%

Injection 25 2.3%

Total 1,509


87/101

Table 18 Typical ways of administration

Smo

kin

g

Wat

erp

ipe

Bo

ng

Vap

ori

zer

Ch

asin

g th

e d

rago

n

Sub

lingu

al

Inge

stio

n

Sno

rtin

g

Rec

tal

Inje

ctio

n

UR-144 83.3% 8.3% 16.7% 0.0% 0.0% 8.3% 0.0% 16.7% 0.0% 0.0%

AM-2201 95.5% 13.6% 22.7% 9.1% 9.1% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 4.5%

Pentedrone 6.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 6.5% 6.5% 93.5% 0.0% 0.0%

3,4-DMMC 0.0% 50.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Brefedron 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 75.0% 0.0% 25.0%

MDPBP (NRG1) 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 100.0% 100.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Alfa-PVP 25.0% 2.8% 0.0% 5.6% 5.6% 5.6% 11.1% 88.9% 2.8% 5.6%

3-MMC 9.2% 1.3% 2.6% 0.0% 0.0% 5.3% 28.9% 88.2% 1.3% 2.6%

Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT) 11.1% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 77.8% 0.0% 22.2%

Mephedrone 16.8% 4.2% 6.8% 1.1% 1.1% 5.8% 16.8% 89.5% 2.6% 3.7%

6-APB "Benzofury" 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 75.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Methoxetamine (MXE) 15.8% 5.3% 5.3% 5.3% 0.0% 57.9% 26.3% 52.6% 0.0% 10.5%

2C-P 12.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 12.5% 12.5% 87.5% 12.5% 0.0% 0.0%

Buphedrone 20.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 20.0% 20.0% 40.0% 100.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Ethylphenidate 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 66.7% 66.7% 66.7% 0.0% 0.0%

25C-NBOMe 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 25.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Bromo-dragonFLY 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 50.0% 100.0% 0.0% 50.0%

AB-FUBINACA 100.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0%

2C-B 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 28.6% 71.4% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

25I-NBOMe 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 88.9% 11.1% 11.1% 0.0% 0.0%

4-HO-MET 3.8% 3.8% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 19.2% 65.4% 23.1% 7.7% 3.8%


88/101

other 60.8% 4.9% 8.8% 0.0% 1.0% 2.9% 18.6% 31.4% 2.0% 1.0%

Do not know 73.0% 8.9% 10.7% 0.4% 1.4% 2.2% 9.7% 28.6% 1.4% 1.0%

total 48.4% 6.3% 8.4% 0.9% 1.8% 6.2% 16.2% 48.2% 1.7% 2.3%


89/101

Q11 What are the most important intended effects that you seek when you used the

substance which you selected? (several answers are possible)

Frequency Percent

to bond with others, to socialize 659 61.4%

to get high 589 54.8%

to provide me with energy (sexual performance not included)

102 9.5%

to improve sexual intercourse 106 9.9%

to increase the positive effects of another drug 77 7.2%

to reduce the negative effects of another drug 66 6.1%

to modify perception 450 32.5%

to soothe pain 94 8.8%

to allay or alleviate anxiety 263 24.5%

to fight sleeplessness 93 8.7%

to fight tiredness 153 14.2%

to relax 455 42.4%

to stimulate brain activity for learning or work 118 11.0%

others 77 7.2%

Total 3,302


90/101

Table 19 Indented effects

to

bo

nd

w

ith

o

ther

s,

to

soci

aliz

e

to g

et h

igh

to

pro

vid

e m

e

wit

h

ener

gy

(sex

ual

per

form

ance

n

ot

incl

ud

ed)

to

imp

rove

sexu

al

inte

rco

urs

e

to

incr

ease

th

e

po

siti

ve

effe

cts

of

ano

ther

dru

g

to

red

uce

th

e

neg

ativ

e ef

fect

s o

f an

oth

er d

rug

to

mo

dif

y

per

cep

tio

n

to s

oo

the

pai

n

to

alla

y o

r

alle

viat

e an

xiet

y

to

figh

t sl

eep

less

nes

s

to

figh

t

tire

dn

ess

to r

elax

to

stim

ula

te

bra

in a

ctiv

ity

for

lear

nin

g o

r w

ork

oth

ers

UR-144 50.0% 83.3% 0.0% 8.3% 0.0% 0.0% 41.7% 8.3% 16.7% 25.0% 8.3% 66.7% 8.3% 0.0%

AM-2201 63.6% 59.1% 0.0% 13.6% 9.1% 0.0% 40.9% 4.5% 31.8% 27.3% 4.5% 50.0% 13.6% 0.0%

Pentedrone 64.5% 48.4% 25.8% 19.4% 12.9% 6.5% 25.8% 3.2% 29.0% 3.2% 25.8% 25.8% 41.9% 3.2%

3,4-DMMC 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Brephedrone 50.0% 75.0% 0.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 50.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0%

MDPBP (NRG1) 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 100.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0%

Alfa-PVP 63.9% 58.3% 25.0% 8.3% 2.8% 16.7% 44.4% 5.6% 19.4% 2.8% 27.8% 44.4% 19.4% 8.3%

3-MMC 65.8% 72.4% 11.8% 26.3% 7.9% 6.6% 34.2% 3.9% 18.4% 2.6% 13.2% 35.5% 10.5% 3.9%

Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT) 66.7% 55.6% 11.1% 0.0% 22.2% 11.1% 22.2% 0.0% 22.2% 0.0% 44.4% 11.1% 33.3% 11.1%

Mephedrone 66.3% 63.7% 16.8% 12.6% 7.9% 8.9% 36.8% 13.7% 26.3% 12.1% 24.7% 45.8% 11.1% 5.8%

6-APB "Benzofury" 50.0% 75.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 75.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 75.0% 25.0% 0.0%

Methoxetamine (MXE) 47.4% 31.6% 5.3% 21.1% 5.3% 10.5% 84.2% 10.5% 21.1% 0.0% 5.3% 47.4% 15.8% 0.0%

2C-P 75.0% 37.5% 0.0% 0.0% 12.5% 0.0% 75.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 12.5% 25.0%

Buphedrone 80.0% 80.0% 20.0% 20,0% 0.0% 20.0% 20,0% 20.0% 20.0% 0.0% 80.0% 40.0% 20.0% 0.0%

Ethylphenidate 33.3% 33.3% 66.7% 0.0% 33.3% 33.3% 33.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 33.3% 0.0% 100.0% 0.0%

25C-NBOMe 75.0% 50.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Bromo-dragonFLY 50.0% 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0%


91/101

AB-FUBINACA 100.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 50.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0%

2C-B 71.4% 42.9% 0.0% 28.6% 0.0% 0.0% 71.4% 0.0% 28.6% 0.0% 14.3% 57.1% 0.0% 0.0%

25I-NBOMe 77.8% 22.2% 11.1% 11.1% 11.1% 0.0% 44.4% 0.0% 11.1% 0.0% 11.1% 33.3% 11.1% 11.1%

4-HO-MET 65.4% 38.5% 0.0% 15.4% 15.4% 0.0% 76.9% 15.4% 3.8% 3.8% 7.7% 42.3% 3.8% 7.7%

Other 51.0% 52.0% 3.9% 6.9% 6.9% 8.8% 52.9% 8.8% 34.3% 14.7% 13.7% 49.0% 11.8% 13.7%

Do not know 60.4% 50.9% 6.2% 5.4% 5.8% 3.8% 39.0% 8.5% 24.5% 7.6% 9.1% 41.6% 7.4% 7.6%

total 61.4% 54.8% 9.5% 9.9% 7.2% 6.1% 41.9% 8.8% 24.5% 8.7% 14.2% 42.4% 11.0% 7.2%


92/101

Q12 Did you feel anything unpleasant after you took the substance last time?

Frequency Percent

Yes 515 48.0%

No 559 52.0%

Total 1,074

Table 20 Declaration of feeling something unpleasant after taking NPS

yes no

UR-144 16.7% 83.3%

AM-2201 50.0% 50.0%

Pentedrone 67.7% 32.3%

3,4-DMMC 100.0% 0.0%

Brephedrone 25.0% 75.0%

MDPBP (NRG1) 50.0% 50.0%

Alfa-PVP 52.8% 47.2%

3-MMC 43.4% 56.6%

Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT) 44.4% 55.6%

Mephedrone 42.1% 57.9%

6-APB "Benzofury" 50.0% 50.0%

Methoxetamine (MXE) 31.6% 68.4%

2C-P 50.0% 50.0%

Buphedrone 60.0% 40.0%

Ethylphenidate 33.3% 66.7%

25C-NBOMe 0.0% 100.0%

Bromo-dragonFLY 0.0% 100.0%

AB-FUBINACA 50.0% 50.0%

2C-B 28.6% 71.4%

25I-NBOMe 22.2% 77.8%

4-HO-MET 26.9% 73.1%

other 47.1% 52.9%

Do not know 53.1% 46.9%

total 48.0% 52.0%


93/101

Q13. Did you feel anything unpleasant after you took the substance last time? What

unpleasant feelings did you have after taking the substance? (several answers are possible)

Frequency Percent

unpleasant, intensive hallucinations, delusions 23 2.1%

strong craving to use more 145 13.5%

depression, dejection 140 13.0%

strong paranoia, fear, anxiety 163 15.2%

aggression 270 25.1%

extreme agitation and excitement, sleeplessness 77 7.2%

fatigue, exhaustion, sleepiness 172 16.0%

muscle ache, cramps, jaw clenching 184 17.1%

shaking 141 13.1%

seizures 167 15.5%

could not control my muscles, I have problems moving

97 9.0%

headache 108 10.1%

nausea, vomiting 150 14.0%

greatly increased heart rate, palpitations, chest pain

130 12.1%

breathing difficulties, dyspnoea 253 23.6%

sweating 111 10.3%

hyperthermia 181 16.9%

dehydration and/or diarrhoea 150 14.0%

problems with sight 53 4.9%

itches, skin changes, changed skin colour, spots, blisters, rash etc.

119 11.1%

other 57 5.3%

Total 2,891


94/101

Table 21 Description of unpleasant feelings after taking NPS

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UR-144 8.3% 0.0% 16.7% 16. 7% 16.7% 16.7% 16.7% 16.7% 8.3% 16.7%

AM-2201 0.0% 18.2% 9.1% 9.1% 22.7% 0.0% 0.0% 22.7% 9.1% 4.5%

Pentedron 3.2% 9.7% 38.7% 32.3% 35,5% 16.1% 35.5% 22.6% 32.3% 25.8%

3,4-DMMC 0.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50,0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0%

Brefedron 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25,0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0%

MDPBP (NRG1) 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50..0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 0.0%

alfa - PVP 0.0% 16.7% 30.6% 30.6% 38.9% 11.1% 36.1% 19.4% 30.6% 33.3%

3-MMC 7.9% 5.3% 14.5% 15.8% 11.8% 0.0% 19.7% 17.1% 11.8% 13.2%

Etkatynon (ETH-CAT) 11.1% 22.2% 33.,3% 0.0% 22.2% 0.0% 22.2% 11.1% 44.4% 22.2%

Mefedron 3.2% 8.9% 21.1% 16.8% 19.5% 8.9% 22.6% 14.2% 18.9% 17.9%

6-APB "Benzo Fury" 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Metoksetamina (MXE) 0.0% 5.3% 0.0% 0.0% 5.3% 0.0% 5.3% 5.3% 5.3% 0.0%

2C-P 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 12.5% 25.0% 12.5%


95/101

bufedron 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 20.0% 20.0% 60.0% 40.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Etylofenidat 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 33.3% 0.0% 33.3% 0.0% 33.3% 33.3%

25C-NBOMe 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Bromo-dragonFLY 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

AB-FUBINACA 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 50.0% 25.0% 0.0%

2C-B 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 14.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

25I-NBOMe 0.0% 11.1% 0.0% 11.1% 11.1% 0.0% 0.0% 11.1% 0.0% 0.0%

4-HO-MET 0.0% 3.8% 0.0% 3.8% 11.5% 0.0% 0.0% 7.7% 0.0% 3.8%

other 1.0% 12.7% 13.7% 11.8% 25.5% 10.8% 14.7% 16.7% 9.8% 14.7%

Do not know 1.2% 17.7% 8.0% 14.9% 30.0% 7.0% 12.1% 18.9% 10.1% 15.9%

total 2.1% 13.5% 13.0% 15.2% 25.1% 7.2% 16.0% 17.1% 13.1% 15.5%

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UR-144 8.3% 0.0% 16.7% 8.3% 16.7% 8.3% 16.7% 16.7% 8.3% 0.0% 8.3%

AM-2201 13.6% 4.5% 18.2% 36.4% 9.1% 0.0% 9.1% 13.6% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Pentedrone 9.7% 9.7% 12.9% 12.9% 41.9% 22.6% 41.9% 25.8% 16.1% 22.6% 19.4%

3.4-DMMC 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 50.0% 50.0% 0.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 50.0%


96/101

Brephedrone 0.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

MDPBP (NRG1) 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 50.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Alfa-PVP 13.9% 16.7% 13.9% 5.6% 38.9% 22.2% 30.6% 16.7% 5.6% 27.8% 5.6%

3-MMC 6.6% 5.3% 7.9% 5.3% 19.7% 10.5% 18.4% 7.9% 9.2% 13.2% 7.9%

Ethcathinone (ETH-CAT) 0.0% 0.0% 11.1% 0.0% 44.4% 11.1% 11.1% 33.3% 0.0% 11.1% 0.0%

Mephedrone 9.5% 6.8% 9.5% 8.9% 22.6% 10.0% 23.2% 17.9% 10.0% 7.9% 6.8%

6-APB "Benzofury" 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 50.0% 25.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Methoxetamine (MXE) 0.0% 10.5% 10.5% 10.5% 10.5% 0.0% 0.0% 5.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

2C-P 0.0% 0.0% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 0.0% 12.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Buphedrone 0.0% 0.0% 20.0% 0.0% 40.0% 0.0% 40.0% 40.0% 20.0% 20.0% 0.0%

Ethylphenidate 0.0% 0.0% 33.3% 0.0% 33.3% 33.3% 33.3% 33.3% 33.3% 0.0% 33.3%

25C-NBOMe 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

Bromo-dragonFLY 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

AB-FUBINACA 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0% 0.0% 25.0%

2C-B 0.0% 0.0% 14.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

25I-NBOMe 11.1% 0.0% 0.0% 22.2% 0.0% 0.0% 11.1% 0.0% 0.0% 11.1% 11.1%

4-HO-MET 3.8% 0.0% 3.8% 7.7% 7.7% 0.0% 3.8% 3.8% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

other 7.8% 10.8% 11.8% 7.8% 19.6% 10.8% 17.6% 14.7% 1.0% 10.8% 2.0%

Do not know 10.1% 13.3% 17.9% 15.3% 26.0% 10.7% 13.7% 13.3% 3.0% 12.5% 4.6%

total 9.0% 10.1% 14.0% 12.1% 23.6% 10.3% 16.9% 14.0% 4.9% 11.1% 5.3%


97/101

Q14 Did you ever look for medical assistance due to unpleasant feelings caused by the

substance ?

Frequency Percent

Yes 33 6.4%

No 482 93.6%

Total 515 Table 22 Declaration of looking for medical assistance

Q15 Did you have enough information on the following aspects related to the New

Psychoactive Substance you took?

yes rather yes rather no No

Their legality or illegality 55.6% 14.9% 9.9% 19.6%

Their effects 57.4% 27.7% 8.0% 7.0%

Their risks to health 50.0% 24.3% 14.8% 10.9%

The doses needed to get the required effect

54.1% 24.4% 11.2% 10.3%

A safe dose 47.3% 23.7% 13.6% 15.4%

Ways of administering 75.0% 17.4% 3.4% 4.2% Table 23 Information about the last used NPS

Q16 What are the most important reasons that made you take the substance last time? Please

specify their importance for you?

Not important

Rather important

Very important

It was not forbidden 57.3% 26.6% 16.1%

It was easy for me to get 32.3% 36.9% 30.8%

It is difficult to detect during tests (urinary and saliva tests)

65.2% 20.4% 14.4%

I had the opportunity to take it (through friends etc.)

24.9% 35.9% 39.2%

Curiosity 26.1% 32.6% 41.3%

I like the effects (I have used it before) 43.8% 24.6% 31.7%

It is less harmful 48.4% 30.8% 20.8%

It is of better quality (purer, less cutting agent)

48.7% 26.3% 25.0%

It is not so addictive 52.2% 25.0% 22.7%

The effects are strong 31.8% 33.3% 34.8% Table 24 Reasons for taking selected NPS


98/101

Q17 Thinking about the substance you selected, how did you get it last time?

Frequency Percent

given to me by someone for free 353 32.9%

bought from a friend who is not a dealer 150 14.0%

bought from a dealer 131 12.2%

bought from a shop online 147 13.7%

bought from a classified ad online 12 1.1%

bought from a shop (not online) 183 17.0%

other 98 9.1%

Total 1074 Table 25 Way of purchasing/obtaining selected NPS

Q18 During the last 12 months, how many times have you ordered New Psychoactive

Substances from online shops?

Frequency Percent

None 823 76.5%

One time 52 4.8%

2-5 times 85 7.9%

to 10 times 41 3.8%

11 to 20 times 19 1.8%

More than 20 times 54 5.0%

Total 1,074 Table 26 Frequency of ordering NPS from online shops

Q19 During the last online order, how much did you spend?

mean PLN 551.24

mode PLN 100

median PLN 130 Table 27 Money spent on NPS

Q20 During the last online order, how many different New Psychoactive Substances did you

buy?

Frequency Percent

1 105 41.8%

2 to 5 97 38.6%

More then 5 49 19.5%

Total 251 Table 28 Quantity of NPS ordered from online shops


99/101

Q21 How much did you get for your money during your last online order (please fill in only

one row for each form you purchased)?

Mean Median

g (only for powder) 28.95 4.50

pcs (capsule) 73.17 6.00

pcs (pill / tablet) 57.58 10.00

ml (only for liquid) 225.38 55.00

pcs (parts of blotter) 154.85 10.00 Table 29 Quantity of NPS received from last online purchase

Q24 Which were the most important criteria for you when you selected shops in the last 12

months? (no more than 5)

Frequency Percent

I followed the advice of other users 130 51.8%

I had good past experience with the shop 110 43.8%

The site uses a method of secure payment 56 22.3%

Good profile on pages where clients share their experiences (e.g. SafeOrScam)

99 39.4%

It is specialized in one substance 38 15.1%

It was cheaper than other online shops 71 28.3%

The New Psychoactive Substance are of better quality than other online shops

74 29.5%

The New Psychoactive Substance were shipped in discrete packets

63 25.1%

The shipment was more reliable than other sites 42 16.7%

The New Psychoactive Substance I was looking for was not available in other online shops

28 11.2%

No online shop sends the New Psychoactive Substance I was looking for to my country

8 3.2%

No specific criterion 46 18.3%

Other 4 1.6%

Total 769

Table 30 Criteria of selection of online shops


100/101

Q25 During the last 12 months, in how many different online shops have you ordered?

Frequency Percent

1 127 50.6%

2 to 5 92 36.7%

5 to 10 9 3.6%

More then 10 23 9.2%

Total 251 Table 31 Number of online shops used by respondents

Q26 Where did you look for information about New Psychoactive Substances? (several

answers are possible)

Frequency Percent

an online shop 116 8.4%

a web forum 394 28.4%

friends / family / acquaintances 407 29.4%

I do not need any information 338 24.4%

my dealer 163 11.8%

TV/radio 85 6.1%

newspapers, magazines 56 4.0%

I do not have any information 402 29.0%

Other 132 9.5%

Total 2093

Table 32 Source of information about NPS


101/101

Q28 Do you agree with the following statements:

Yes, this is true for most of them

Yes, this is true for a few of them

No, this is not true

New Psychoactive Substances are less harmful than illicit substances

8.2% 15.4% 76.4%

New Psychoactive Substances are of better quality than illicit substances (purer, less cutting agent)

14.0% 17.9% 68.1%

New Psychoactive Substances are less addictive than other illicit drugs

11.0% 22.4% 66.6%

The effects of New Psychoactive Substances are stronger than other illicit drugs

38.3% 40.1% 21.7%

Table 33 General opinions about NPS

online survey among nps users - ofdt

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