Psychedelic drugs have long been known for their mind-altering effects, such as hallucinations and a distorted sense of time and space. However, a relatively new class of synthetic psychedelics has emerged in recent years, posing a greater risk to users than their natural counterparts. This article will explore the risks associated with the use of synthetic psychedelics, focusing on NBOMe compounds (commonly referred to as N-Bombs), one of the most well-known and dangerous types of research chemicals.
NBOMe compounds were initially developed for use in scientific research in the late 2000s as a novel class of potent serotonin receptor agonists. It didn’t take long for recreational use to proliferate, and by the early 2010s, these drugs began to surface in various forms on the black market, sold as LSD or other hallucinogens. This is concerning because NBOMe compounds are often far more potent and unpredictable than traditional psychedelics, leading to a higher risk of overdose and other negative consequences.
One of the primary risks associated with synthetic psychedelics lies in their potency. NBOMe compounds, such as 25I-NBOMe and 25C-NBOMe, are active at very low doses (often in the microgram range), making it extremely easy for users to accidentally consume too much and experience an overdose. In fact, there have been multiple fatalities attributed to NBOMe (source), with deadly outcomes often resulting from seizures, organ failure, and other acute toxic effects. As these drugs are often passed off as other, less potent substances, users who believe they are taking a “safe” dose of LSD might unwittingly consume a lethal amount of the synthetic compound.
Another significant risk associated with synthetic psychedelics is their relative lack of research compared to traditional substances like LSD and psilocybin. Because these drugs have not been thoroughly studied, we have limited knowledge of potential long-term effects and how these chemicals impact the brain and body over time. Some anecdotal reports from individuals who have used synthetic psychedelics like NBOMe have reported persistent negative side effects such as headaches, anxiety, and cognitive difficulties, although more research is needed to determine the prevalence and severity of these potential risks source.
In addition to the immediate physical risks of synthetic psychedelics, these substances can also pose significant emotional and psychological risks for users. Like their more well-studied counterparts, synthetic psychedelics can trigger hallucinations and altered perceptions of reality that could be potentially distressing for users. This may increase the likelihood of users experiencing bad trips, anxiety attacks, or even longer-lasting psychological issues such as psychosis or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Another important consideration when discussing the risks of synthetic psychedelics is the legal implications of their use. While some jurisdictions have begun to recognize the potential therapeutic benefits of traditional psychedelics like psilocybin, leading to looser regulation or even legalization, synthetic psychedelics remain illegal in many places. In the United States, for example, several NBOMe compounds are listed as Schedule I controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration source. This means that the possession, distribution, or consumption of these substances can result in harsh legal penalties, which add to the potential risks and dangers associated with their use.
In conclusion, synthetic psychedelics such as NBOMe compounds pose a significant risk to users, particularly due to their potency, limited research, and legal status. These research chemicals have been implicated in numerous fatal overdoses, and their long-term effects on users remain largely unknown. People who choose to experiment with synthetic psychedelics should be aware of these risks and exercise caution, while policymakers should consider the unique dangers posed by these substances when creating drug policy and regulation.