Fourth international conference on novel psychoactive substances
The main aim of the NPS conference series, now at the fourth edition, is to increase knowledge and understanding about the nature and the effects of NPS as well as promote innovative strategies to prevent the diffusion of NPS in society. The conference invites contributions in all areas of potential interest, as oral presentations or research posters.
30 May 2016 |The recent emergence of novel (or new) psychoactive substances (NPS), combined with the ability of the Internet to disseminate information quickly, have raised a number of challenges in the fields of drug policies, substance use research and public health across the EU and internationally.
Despite increasing amount of attention being given to this area, these new emerging products, often unregulated and sold online as ‘legal’ and ‘safer’ alternatives to traditional illicit drugs, are rarely mentioned in scientific literature, and there is limited information available on their nature and potential risks.
The EU early‐warning system, operated by the EMCDDA, currently monitors over 300 new drugs. These include derivatives of phenethylamines, tryptamines, piperazines and cathinones, as well as synthetic cannabinoids and a small number of herbal substances that can produce psychoactive effects.
Such a phenomenon highlights the importance of multi-national and multi-disciplinary collaboration in order to enhance knowledge and improve the quality of information sharing and good practices at a global level.
The main objectives of this conference are:
- Sharing accurate, evidence-based information on NPS and latest trends of misuse;
- Improving understanding of treatment and management approaches for patients with levels of clinical and/or behavioural toxicity associated with NPS use;
- Assessing psychiatric consequences of NPS use and related behavioural addictions;
- Developing innovative prevention measures especially for vulnerable individuals;
- Raising awareness and contributing to the development of effective prevention messages;
- Exploring socio-cultural factors underlying risky behaviours;
- Contributing to the development of an international platform and other technological solutions for rapid information sharing;
- Defying new strategies to prevent the diffusion of NPS in society;
- Networking and providing the opportunity to meet renowned experts in the field
