The Picture of the New Psychoactive Substances-Problem in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Recently the use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) has increased at an unprecedented pace around the world. Despite many NPS becoming controlled under drug legislation, many of them remain legal in some countries around the world. In Saudi Arabia, NPS are controlled under the Saudi Food and Drug Authority that only cover a few early NPS. The picture of the NPS-problem in Saudi Arabia is vague due to insufficient prevalence data, particularly that using biological samples. Whilst there is evidence of increasing use of NPS throughout the world. Several studies indicate that NPS may cause serious toxicity and impairment to health, therefore it is important to understand the scale of use within society. Awareness among health organisations should be raised regarding these drugs and their risk to individuals, especially young people. With more research and better understanding of the problem and its extent, the response can be improved and be more effective.