Tibor Brunt | University of Amsterdam (original) (raw)
Papers by Tibor Brunt
International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, Jan 4, 2024
Page 1. NIEUWSBRIEF SPINED No 24 Mei 2008 REDACTIONEEL De eerste aflevering van 2008. Flink wat f... more Page 1. NIEUWSBRIEF SPINED No 24 Mei 2008 REDACTIONEEL De eerste aflevering van 2008. Flink wat faunistiek, zoals gebruikelijk, maar ook aandacht voor gedrag. Boudewijn Heuts en Tibor Brunt relativeren dat eeuwige ...
PubMed, 2012
Background: In several countries, including the Netherlands, the use of GHB seems to be increasin... more Background: In several countries, including the Netherlands, the use of GHB seems to be increasing. Many recreational users of GHB consider the drug to be harmless and to have no serious side effects. In recent years the number of patients with GHB addition has been increasing steadily. Aim: To draw attention to the possible development of neurotoxicity due to chronic and intensive use of GBH. Method: We reviewed the literature using PubMed. Results: Several studies point to an increase in the number of incidents arising from the risky use of GHB or from a GHB overdose. Other drugs, such as ketamine and alcohol, are known to cause neurotoxicity, leading to cognitive impairment. As outlined in this review article, GHB , alcohol and ketamine show clear similarities in their mechanism of action. This suggests that GHB might have almost the same neurotoxic effects as ketamine and alcohol. An overdose of GHB, just like binge-drinking and a high dose of ketamine, may lead to a coma that probably harms the brain, particularly if comas occur repeatedly. Conclusion: The risk of neurotoxicity is likely to increase with chronic, intensive use of GHB, which is a feature of GHB-addition. We therefore advocate research into the possible toxic effects of GHB in the long term, involving, for instance, the study of lasting effects on the cognitive functions of GHB users and former users.
Addiction, Sep 18, 2015
Between 2000 and 2005 the average percentage of Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana as ... more Between 2000 and 2005 the average percentage of Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana as sold in Dutch coffeeshops has increased substantially; the potency of domestic products (Nederwiet and Nederhasj) has particularly increased. In contrast with imported marijuana, Nederwiet hardly contained any cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabinoid that is thought to offset some of the adverse effects of THC. In 2005, the THC content in Nederwiet was significantly lower than in 2004. This study investigates the further decrease or increase of cannabinoids in these cannabis products. From 2005 to 2015 five different cannabis products were bought anonymously in 50 coffeeshops that were selected randomly each year from all coffeeshops in the Netherlands. A total of 2126 cannabis samples were bought, consisting of 664 Nederwiet samples (most popular), 537 Nederwiet samples (supposed strongest varieties), 183 imported herbal cannabis samples, 140 samples of cannabis resin made of Nederwiet and 602 samples of imported cannabis resin. All samples were analysed chemically for their THC, CBD and cannabinol (CBN) content. Between 2005 and 2015, the mean potencies of the most popular and the strongest Nederwiet and of imported cannabis resin were 16.0 ± 4.0%, 17.0 ± 3,9% and 16.5 ± 6.3%, respectively. Imported herbal cannabis (6.5 ± 3.5%) and cannabis resin made from Nederwiet (30.2 ± 16.4%) contained, respectively, less (β = -10.0, P < 0.001) and more (β = 13.7, P < 0.001) THC than imported cannabis resin. Linear regression models were used to study the trends in THC of the different cannabis products over time. A marginal, but significant (P < 0.001), overall decline of THC per year of 0.22% was found in all cannabis products. However, no significant difference was found between the five products in the THC linear trajectories across time. Of all the cannabis products, only imported cannabis resin contained a relatively high CBD/THC ratio (median 0.42). The average tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of the most popular herbal cannabis products in the Netherlands has decreased slightly since 2005. The popular Nederwiet type still has a relatively high THC to cannabidiol ratio.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence, Dec 1, 2015
European Neuropsychopharmacology, Aug 1, 2014
persisting perception disorder and the serotonergic system: A comprehensive review including new ... more persisting perception disorder and the serotonergic system: A comprehensive review including new MDMA-related clinical cases, European Neuropsychopharmacology,
Genus-specificity of araneophagy of linyphiid spiders and spiders of other families (Arachnida, A... more Genus-specificity of araneophagy of linyphiid spiders and spiders of other families (Arachnida, Araneae). We found genus specificity of predation by spiders on other spiders in captivity which surpass them in body size (araneophagy). Adult specimens of three species of the linyphiid genus Walckenaeria which were successively tested for araneophagy (in the laboratory) in the order of first species discovery in the field in their natural habitat, showed a consistently high level of killing potential (predation on allospecific spiders which surpassed them in body size: genus-specific araneophagy of high intensity). The body size was measured by prosoma size on the dorsal side without the chelicerae, and by average leg length and average leg thickness. This consistently high genus-specific araneophagy of Walckenaeria was not shown by eight other linyphiid genera. In three other spider families than linyphiids where at least two species per genus could be tested (Theridiidae, Araneidae, Clubionidae; adult females of the genera Theridion, Steatoda, Larinioides, and Clubiona) also showed a consistently high level of predation on allospecific spiders surpassing them in size as the genus Walckenaeria had shown. Apart from the genera-dependent capacity to kill large spiders, there were differences between the adult males and females in their killing capacity. In the theridiids, araneids, and clubionids, i.e. in non-linyphiid genera, only females managed to kill allospecific spiders surpassing them in size, whereas in Walckenaeria the males could do this in two out of the three tested species. We conclude that high araneophagic capacity is significantly less genus-specific across nine genera of the linyphiid family than across four genera of three other spider families (theridiids, araneids, and clubionids).
European Journal of Neuroscience, Dec 5, 2020
The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuronal system involved in a number of biological functi... more The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuronal system involved in a number of biological functions, like attention, anxiety, mood, memory, appetite, reward and immune responses. It is at the centre of scientific interest, which is driven by therapeutic promise of certain cannabinoid ligands and the changing legalization of herbal cannabis in many countries. The endocannabinoid system is a modulatory system, with endocannabinoids as retrograde neurotransmitters rather than direct neurotransmitters. Neuropharmacology of cannabinoid ligands in the brain can therefore be understood in terms of their modulatory actions through other neurotransmitter systems. The CB 1 receptor is chiefly responsible for effects of endocannabinoids and analogous ligands in the brain. An overview of the neuropharmacology of several cannabinoid receptor ligands, including endocannabinoids, herbal cannabis and synthetic cannabinoid receptor ligands is given in this review. Their mechanism of action at the endocannabinoid system is described, mainly in the brain. In addition, effects of cannabinoid ligands on other neurotransmitter systems will also be described, such as dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, noradrenaline, opioid and GABA. In light of this, therapeutic potential and adverse effects of cannabinoid receptor ligands will also be discussed.
Current Neuropharmacology, Apr 1, 2022
Background: GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid; sodium oxybate) is a general anaesthetic that is clin... more Background: GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid; sodium oxybate) is a general anaesthetic that is clinically used for the treatment of narcolepsy, cataplexy, alcohol withdrawal and alcohol relapse prevention. In addition, GHB is recreationally used. Most clinical and recreational users regard GHB as an innocent drug devoid of adverse effects, despite its high dependence potential and possible neurotoxic effects. At high doses, GHB may lead to a comatose state. This paper systematically reviews possible cognitive impairments due to clinical and recreational GHB use. Methods: PubMed and PsychINFO were searched for literature data about the acute and residual cognitive deficits following GHB use. This review is conducted using the PRISMA protocol. Results: A total of 43 reports covering human and animal data on GHB-induced cognitive impairments were eligible and reviewed. This systematic review found no indication for cognitive impairments after clinical GHB use. However, it supports the view that moderate GHB use may result in acute short-term cognitive impairments, whereas regular high-dose GHB use and/or multiple GHB-induced comas are probably neurotoxic resulting in long-term residual cognitive impairments. Conclusion: These results emphasize the need for awareness among clinicians and recreational users to minimize negative health consequences of recreational GHB use, particularly when high doses are used and GHB-induced comas occur.
International Journal of Drug Policy, Sep 1, 2021
Background and aims: Injecting drug use is a matter of public health concern, associated with ris... more Background and aims: Injecting drug use is a matter of public health concern, associated with risks of overdoses, addiction and increased risk of bloodborne viral transmissions. Self-reported data on substances injected can be inaccurate or subject to bias or drug users might be oblivious to their injected substances or adulterations. Gathering of robust analytical information on the actual composition of substances injected might provide better information about the drugs that are being used. Therefore, this study aimed to analyse the residual content of discarded syringes collected across 7 European cities, collectively called the European Syringe Collection and Analysis Project Enterprise (ESCAPE). Methods: Used syringes were collected at street automatic injection kit dispensers or at harm-reduction services in Amsterdam, Budapest, Cologne, Glasgow, Helsinki, Lausanne and Paris. Two sampling periods were executed thus far, in 2017 and 2018. Qualitative chemical analysis of the content of used syringes was performed combining gas chromatographic (GC) and ultra(high)performance liquid chromatographic ((U)HPLC) analytical techniques with detection by mass spectrometry (MS). Results: Substances detected most frequently across both campaigns were cocaine, heroin, buprenorphine, amphetamines and synthetic cathinones. In Amsterdam, Cologne, Lausanne and Glasgow heroin and cocaine were the psychoactive substances most often detected, often in conjunction with each other. Helsinki showed a high presence of buprenorphine and amphetamines. In Budapest and Paris, synthetic cathinones were frequently detected. Less synthetic cathinones and cocaine was detected in 2018, whereas buprenorphine was detected almost twice as much. Inner-city variations were found, probably reflecting the types of people who inject drugs (PWID) in different areas of the city. Conclusion: Overall, laboratory-confirmed local data on injected substances showed resemblance to national surveys done among PWID. However, the ESCAPE data also showed some interesting differences, showing it can be used for local interventions and complementing existing monitoring data.
Psychopharmacology, Apr 9, 2019
Background Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a class of new psychoactive substances that have been... more Background Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a class of new psychoactive substances that have been rapidly evolving around the world throughout recent years. Many different synthetic cannabinoid analogues are on the consumer market and sold under misleading names, like Bspice^or Bincense.^A limited number of studies have reported serious health effects associated with SC use. In this study, we compared clinical and subclinical psychopathological symptoms associated with SC use and natural cannabis (NC) use. Methods A convenience sample of 367 NC and SC users was recruited online, including four validated psychometric questionnaires: The Drug Use Disorders Identification Test (DUDIT), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Altman Mania Scale (Altman), and Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). The two groups were compared with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and covariance (ANCOVA), chi 2 tests, and logistic regression when appropriate. Results The SC user group did not differ in age from the NC user group (27.7 years), but contained less females (21% and 30%, respectively). SC users scored higher than NC users on all used psychometric measures, indicating a higher likelihood of drug abuse, sleep problems, (hypo)manic symptoms, and the nine dimensions comprising the BSI, somatization, obsessivecompulsive behavior, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, phobic anxiety, paranoid ideation, and psychoticism. Odds ratios (95% CI) for the SC user group vs NC user group were, respectively, drug dependence 3.56 (1.77-7.16), (severe) insomnia 5.01 (2.10-11.92), (hypo-)mania 5.18 (2.04-13.14), and BSI psychopathology 5.21 (2.96-9.17). Discussion This study shows that SC use is associated with increased mental health symptomatology compared to NC use.
The number of gamma-hydroxybutyric (GHB) acid users and GHB-dependent patients is increasing. Rec... more The number of gamma-hydroxybutyric (GHB) acid users and GHB-dependent patients is increasing. Recreational GHB users generally regard GHB use and the frequently occurring GHB-induced comatose states as harmless. However, like with other sedative drugs such as ketamine and alcohol, such overdosing may cause neurotoxic damage, resulting in cognitive impairments, especially if the user repeatedly falls into a coma which is likely to occur because of the high addictive potential of GHB. Animal studies have shown that high doses of GHB are neurotoxic leading to impairment of memory and decline of cognitive functions. Case studies have confirmed that at least some GHB users suffer from impaired cognitive functioning, but clear neurotoxic effects have not been observed in humans. This chapter summarizes the potential neurotoxicity of chronic, intensive GHB use, including the potential negative effects of (repeated) GHB-induced comatose states. Research into the possible long-term neurotoxic and cognitive effects of GHB is advocated.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Apr 1, 2020
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Feb 1, 2020
Substance use disorder often coexists with other psychiatric disorders, resulting in the simultan... more Substance use disorder often coexists with other psychiatric disorders, resulting in the simultaneous use of recreational and prescription drugs. The authors aimed to identify potential pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions between new psychoactive substances of the cathinone class and specific prescription drugs. Methods The authors performed a systematic literature review on interactions between synthetic cathinones (mephedrone, methylone, methylenedioxypyrovalerone and alphapyrrolidinopentiophenone) and antidepressants (citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine), ADHD medications (atomoxetine, dexamphetamine, methylphenidate, modafinil) or HIV medications. Results Although no pharmacokinetic interactions have been reported in previous literatures, such interactions are likely to occur. Metabolic pathways of cathinones, antidepressants, and ADHD medications have been shown to overlap, including metabolism via cytochrome P450 enzymes and their inhibition. Consistent with this finding, interactions of bupropion (a Conclusion Clinicians should be aware of possible interactions between synthetic cathinones and prescription drugs, which may increase the risk of drug toxicity or reduce the therapeutic efficacy of the drugs. Qualitative drug screening for cathinones using mass spectrometry methods may aid the early detection of these agents.
European Addiction Research, 2023
Introduction: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and other image-and performance-enhan... more Introduction: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and other image-and performance-enhancing drugs is a growing public health concern. AAS use is associated with various physical and mental harms, including cardiovascular risks, cognitive deficiencies, and dependence. The aim of this study was to determine whether patterns of AAS use and other variables are associated with the presence of an AAS use disorder (AASUD). Methods: An online survey was completed by 103 male AAS consumers visiting gyms. The association of different patterns of AAS consumption (cycling vs. continuous forms of AAS use), psychoactive substance use, mental health disorders, and sociodemographic variables with moderate-severe AASUD (fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ≥4 criteria) was investigated. The associations between duration of AAS use and the AAS dose with moderate-severe AASUD were investigated using logistic regression analysis with moderate-severe AASUD as the dependent variable. Results: Moderate severe AASUD was present in 25 (24.3%) of the participants. AAS consumers meeting criteria for moderate-severe AASUD, compared to those that did not, in the last 12 months reported a longer duration of AAS use (in weeks), a higher average AAS dose (mg/week), and a greater number of AAS side effects. Duration of AAS use and the AAS dose were the only independent predictors, with an increase of 3.4% in the probability of moderate-severe AASUD with every week increase of the duration of AAS use in the last year (p < 0.05) and an increase in moderate-severe AASUD of 0.1% with every 10 mg increase in the average AAS dose per week (p < 0.05), respectively. Conclusion: Our findings show that moderate-severe AASUD is relatively frequent among male AAS consumers and is positively associated with the duration and average dose of AAS use in the last 12 months.
International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, Jan 4, 2024
Page 1. NIEUWSBRIEF SPINED No 24 Mei 2008 REDACTIONEEL De eerste aflevering van 2008. Flink wat f... more Page 1. NIEUWSBRIEF SPINED No 24 Mei 2008 REDACTIONEEL De eerste aflevering van 2008. Flink wat faunistiek, zoals gebruikelijk, maar ook aandacht voor gedrag. Boudewijn Heuts en Tibor Brunt relativeren dat eeuwige ...
PubMed, 2012
Background: In several countries, including the Netherlands, the use of GHB seems to be increasin... more Background: In several countries, including the Netherlands, the use of GHB seems to be increasing. Many recreational users of GHB consider the drug to be harmless and to have no serious side effects. In recent years the number of patients with GHB addition has been increasing steadily. Aim: To draw attention to the possible development of neurotoxicity due to chronic and intensive use of GBH. Method: We reviewed the literature using PubMed. Results: Several studies point to an increase in the number of incidents arising from the risky use of GHB or from a GHB overdose. Other drugs, such as ketamine and alcohol, are known to cause neurotoxicity, leading to cognitive impairment. As outlined in this review article, GHB , alcohol and ketamine show clear similarities in their mechanism of action. This suggests that GHB might have almost the same neurotoxic effects as ketamine and alcohol. An overdose of GHB, just like binge-drinking and a high dose of ketamine, may lead to a coma that probably harms the brain, particularly if comas occur repeatedly. Conclusion: The risk of neurotoxicity is likely to increase with chronic, intensive use of GHB, which is a feature of GHB-addition. We therefore advocate research into the possible toxic effects of GHB in the long term, involving, for instance, the study of lasting effects on the cognitive functions of GHB users and former users.
Addiction, Sep 18, 2015
Between 2000 and 2005 the average percentage of Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana as ... more Between 2000 and 2005 the average percentage of Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana as sold in Dutch coffeeshops has increased substantially; the potency of domestic products (Nederwiet and Nederhasj) has particularly increased. In contrast with imported marijuana, Nederwiet hardly contained any cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabinoid that is thought to offset some of the adverse effects of THC. In 2005, the THC content in Nederwiet was significantly lower than in 2004. This study investigates the further decrease or increase of cannabinoids in these cannabis products. From 2005 to 2015 five different cannabis products were bought anonymously in 50 coffeeshops that were selected randomly each year from all coffeeshops in the Netherlands. A total of 2126 cannabis samples were bought, consisting of 664 Nederwiet samples (most popular), 537 Nederwiet samples (supposed strongest varieties), 183 imported herbal cannabis samples, 140 samples of cannabis resin made of Nederwiet and 602 samples of imported cannabis resin. All samples were analysed chemically for their THC, CBD and cannabinol (CBN) content. Between 2005 and 2015, the mean potencies of the most popular and the strongest Nederwiet and of imported cannabis resin were 16.0 ± 4.0%, 17.0 ± 3,9% and 16.5 ± 6.3%, respectively. Imported herbal cannabis (6.5 ± 3.5%) and cannabis resin made from Nederwiet (30.2 ± 16.4%) contained, respectively, less (β = -10.0, P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.001) and more (β = 13.7, P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.001) THC than imported cannabis resin. Linear regression models were used to study the trends in THC of the different cannabis products over time. A marginal, but significant (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.001), overall decline of THC per year of 0.22% was found in all cannabis products. However, no significant difference was found between the five products in the THC linear trajectories across time. Of all the cannabis products, only imported cannabis resin contained a relatively high CBD/THC ratio (median 0.42). The average tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of the most popular herbal cannabis products in the Netherlands has decreased slightly since 2005. The popular Nederwiet type still has a relatively high THC to cannabidiol ratio.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence, Dec 1, 2015
European Neuropsychopharmacology, Aug 1, 2014
persisting perception disorder and the serotonergic system: A comprehensive review including new ... more persisting perception disorder and the serotonergic system: A comprehensive review including new MDMA-related clinical cases, European Neuropsychopharmacology,
Genus-specificity of araneophagy of linyphiid spiders and spiders of other families (Arachnida, A... more Genus-specificity of araneophagy of linyphiid spiders and spiders of other families (Arachnida, Araneae). We found genus specificity of predation by spiders on other spiders in captivity which surpass them in body size (araneophagy). Adult specimens of three species of the linyphiid genus Walckenaeria which were successively tested for araneophagy (in the laboratory) in the order of first species discovery in the field in their natural habitat, showed a consistently high level of killing potential (predation on allospecific spiders which surpassed them in body size: genus-specific araneophagy of high intensity). The body size was measured by prosoma size on the dorsal side without the chelicerae, and by average leg length and average leg thickness. This consistently high genus-specific araneophagy of Walckenaeria was not shown by eight other linyphiid genera. In three other spider families than linyphiids where at least two species per genus could be tested (Theridiidae, Araneidae, Clubionidae; adult females of the genera Theridion, Steatoda, Larinioides, and Clubiona) also showed a consistently high level of predation on allospecific spiders surpassing them in size as the genus Walckenaeria had shown. Apart from the genera-dependent capacity to kill large spiders, there were differences between the adult males and females in their killing capacity. In the theridiids, araneids, and clubionids, i.e. in non-linyphiid genera, only females managed to kill allospecific spiders surpassing them in size, whereas in Walckenaeria the males could do this in two out of the three tested species. We conclude that high araneophagic capacity is significantly less genus-specific across nine genera of the linyphiid family than across four genera of three other spider families (theridiids, araneids, and clubionids).
European Journal of Neuroscience, Dec 5, 2020
The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuronal system involved in a number of biological functi... more The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuronal system involved in a number of biological functions, like attention, anxiety, mood, memory, appetite, reward and immune responses. It is at the centre of scientific interest, which is driven by therapeutic promise of certain cannabinoid ligands and the changing legalization of herbal cannabis in many countries. The endocannabinoid system is a modulatory system, with endocannabinoids as retrograde neurotransmitters rather than direct neurotransmitters. Neuropharmacology of cannabinoid ligands in the brain can therefore be understood in terms of their modulatory actions through other neurotransmitter systems. The CB 1 receptor is chiefly responsible for effects of endocannabinoids and analogous ligands in the brain. An overview of the neuropharmacology of several cannabinoid receptor ligands, including endocannabinoids, herbal cannabis and synthetic cannabinoid receptor ligands is given in this review. Their mechanism of action at the endocannabinoid system is described, mainly in the brain. In addition, effects of cannabinoid ligands on other neurotransmitter systems will also be described, such as dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, noradrenaline, opioid and GABA. In light of this, therapeutic potential and adverse effects of cannabinoid receptor ligands will also be discussed.
Current Neuropharmacology, Apr 1, 2022
Background: GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid; sodium oxybate) is a general anaesthetic that is clin... more Background: GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid; sodium oxybate) is a general anaesthetic that is clinically used for the treatment of narcolepsy, cataplexy, alcohol withdrawal and alcohol relapse prevention. In addition, GHB is recreationally used. Most clinical and recreational users regard GHB as an innocent drug devoid of adverse effects, despite its high dependence potential and possible neurotoxic effects. At high doses, GHB may lead to a comatose state. This paper systematically reviews possible cognitive impairments due to clinical and recreational GHB use. Methods: PubMed and PsychINFO were searched for literature data about the acute and residual cognitive deficits following GHB use. This review is conducted using the PRISMA protocol. Results: A total of 43 reports covering human and animal data on GHB-induced cognitive impairments were eligible and reviewed. This systematic review found no indication for cognitive impairments after clinical GHB use. However, it supports the view that moderate GHB use may result in acute short-term cognitive impairments, whereas regular high-dose GHB use and/or multiple GHB-induced comas are probably neurotoxic resulting in long-term residual cognitive impairments. Conclusion: These results emphasize the need for awareness among clinicians and recreational users to minimize negative health consequences of recreational GHB use, particularly when high doses are used and GHB-induced comas occur.
International Journal of Drug Policy, Sep 1, 2021
Background and aims: Injecting drug use is a matter of public health concern, associated with ris... more Background and aims: Injecting drug use is a matter of public health concern, associated with risks of overdoses, addiction and increased risk of bloodborne viral transmissions. Self-reported data on substances injected can be inaccurate or subject to bias or drug users might be oblivious to their injected substances or adulterations. Gathering of robust analytical information on the actual composition of substances injected might provide better information about the drugs that are being used. Therefore, this study aimed to analyse the residual content of discarded syringes collected across 7 European cities, collectively called the European Syringe Collection and Analysis Project Enterprise (ESCAPE). Methods: Used syringes were collected at street automatic injection kit dispensers or at harm-reduction services in Amsterdam, Budapest, Cologne, Glasgow, Helsinki, Lausanne and Paris. Two sampling periods were executed thus far, in 2017 and 2018. Qualitative chemical analysis of the content of used syringes was performed combining gas chromatographic (GC) and ultra(high)performance liquid chromatographic ((U)HPLC) analytical techniques with detection by mass spectrometry (MS). Results: Substances detected most frequently across both campaigns were cocaine, heroin, buprenorphine, amphetamines and synthetic cathinones. In Amsterdam, Cologne, Lausanne and Glasgow heroin and cocaine were the psychoactive substances most often detected, often in conjunction with each other. Helsinki showed a high presence of buprenorphine and amphetamines. In Budapest and Paris, synthetic cathinones were frequently detected. Less synthetic cathinones and cocaine was detected in 2018, whereas buprenorphine was detected almost twice as much. Inner-city variations were found, probably reflecting the types of people who inject drugs (PWID) in different areas of the city. Conclusion: Overall, laboratory-confirmed local data on injected substances showed resemblance to national surveys done among PWID. However, the ESCAPE data also showed some interesting differences, showing it can be used for local interventions and complementing existing monitoring data.
Psychopharmacology, Apr 9, 2019
Background Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a class of new psychoactive substances that have been... more Background Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a class of new psychoactive substances that have been rapidly evolving around the world throughout recent years. Many different synthetic cannabinoid analogues are on the consumer market and sold under misleading names, like Bspice^or Bincense.^A limited number of studies have reported serious health effects associated with SC use. In this study, we compared clinical and subclinical psychopathological symptoms associated with SC use and natural cannabis (NC) use. Methods A convenience sample of 367 NC and SC users was recruited online, including four validated psychometric questionnaires: The Drug Use Disorders Identification Test (DUDIT), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Altman Mania Scale (Altman), and Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). The two groups were compared with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and covariance (ANCOVA), chi 2 tests, and logistic regression when appropriate. Results The SC user group did not differ in age from the NC user group (27.7 years), but contained less females (21% and 30%, respectively). SC users scored higher than NC users on all used psychometric measures, indicating a higher likelihood of drug abuse, sleep problems, (hypo)manic symptoms, and the nine dimensions comprising the BSI, somatization, obsessivecompulsive behavior, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, phobic anxiety, paranoid ideation, and psychoticism. Odds ratios (95% CI) for the SC user group vs NC user group were, respectively, drug dependence 3.56 (1.77-7.16), (severe) insomnia 5.01 (2.10-11.92), (hypo-)mania 5.18 (2.04-13.14), and BSI psychopathology 5.21 (2.96-9.17). Discussion This study shows that SC use is associated with increased mental health symptomatology compared to NC use.
The number of gamma-hydroxybutyric (GHB) acid users and GHB-dependent patients is increasing. Rec... more The number of gamma-hydroxybutyric (GHB) acid users and GHB-dependent patients is increasing. Recreational GHB users generally regard GHB use and the frequently occurring GHB-induced comatose states as harmless. However, like with other sedative drugs such as ketamine and alcohol, such overdosing may cause neurotoxic damage, resulting in cognitive impairments, especially if the user repeatedly falls into a coma which is likely to occur because of the high addictive potential of GHB. Animal studies have shown that high doses of GHB are neurotoxic leading to impairment of memory and decline of cognitive functions. Case studies have confirmed that at least some GHB users suffer from impaired cognitive functioning, but clear neurotoxic effects have not been observed in humans. This chapter summarizes the potential neurotoxicity of chronic, intensive GHB use, including the potential negative effects of (repeated) GHB-induced comatose states. Research into the possible long-term neurotoxic and cognitive effects of GHB is advocated.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Apr 1, 2020
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Feb 1, 2020
Substance use disorder often coexists with other psychiatric disorders, resulting in the simultan... more Substance use disorder often coexists with other psychiatric disorders, resulting in the simultaneous use of recreational and prescription drugs. The authors aimed to identify potential pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions between new psychoactive substances of the cathinone class and specific prescription drugs. Methods The authors performed a systematic literature review on interactions between synthetic cathinones (mephedrone, methylone, methylenedioxypyrovalerone and alphapyrrolidinopentiophenone) and antidepressants (citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine), ADHD medications (atomoxetine, dexamphetamine, methylphenidate, modafinil) or HIV medications. Results Although no pharmacokinetic interactions have been reported in previous literatures, such interactions are likely to occur. Metabolic pathways of cathinones, antidepressants, and ADHD medications have been shown to overlap, including metabolism via cytochrome P450 enzymes and their inhibition. Consistent with this finding, interactions of bupropion (a Conclusion Clinicians should be aware of possible interactions between synthetic cathinones and prescription drugs, which may increase the risk of drug toxicity or reduce the therapeutic efficacy of the drugs. Qualitative drug screening for cathinones using mass spectrometry methods may aid the early detection of these agents.
European Addiction Research, 2023
Introduction: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and other image-and performance-enhan... more Introduction: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and other image-and performance-enhancing drugs is a growing public health concern. AAS use is associated with various physical and mental harms, including cardiovascular risks, cognitive deficiencies, and dependence. The aim of this study was to determine whether patterns of AAS use and other variables are associated with the presence of an AAS use disorder (AASUD). Methods: An online survey was completed by 103 male AAS consumers visiting gyms. The association of different patterns of AAS consumption (cycling vs. continuous forms of AAS use), psychoactive substance use, mental health disorders, and sociodemographic variables with moderate-severe AASUD (fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ≥4 criteria) was investigated. The associations between duration of AAS use and the AAS dose with moderate-severe AASUD were investigated using logistic regression analysis with moderate-severe AASUD as the dependent variable. Results: Moderate severe AASUD was present in 25 (24.3%) of the participants. AAS consumers meeting criteria for moderate-severe AASUD, compared to those that did not, in the last 12 months reported a longer duration of AAS use (in weeks), a higher average AAS dose (mg/week), and a greater number of AAS side effects. Duration of AAS use and the AAS dose were the only independent predictors, with an increase of 3.4% in the probability of moderate-severe AASUD with every week increase of the duration of AAS use in the last year (p < 0.05) and an increase in moderate-severe AASUD of 0.1% with every 10 mg increase in the average AAS dose per week (p < 0.05), respectively. Conclusion: Our findings show that moderate-severe AASUD is relatively frequent among male AAS consumers and is positively associated with the duration and average dose of AAS use in the last 12 months.