Naphyrone is a stimulant drug closely related to ‘cathinone derivatives’ including mephedrone, a group of drugs that are ‘cousins’ of the family of amphetamine compounds which include amphetamine itself (speed), methamphetamine and ecstasy (MDMA), among many others. Naphyrone does not have a long history of use, so there is little evidence of its long term effects or on the risks from using it. However, due to its similarity to other ‘cathinone derivatives’, naphyrone is likely to share the same risks such as anxiety, paranoia, overstimulation of the heart and circulatory system and overexcitation of the nervous system (with the risk of fits). The high potency of naphyrone by comparison with other cathinones like mephedrone suggests that it is likely to be associated with a higher risk of accidental overdose. The effects could include feelings of euphoria, alertness, talkativeness and empathy. When sold over the internet, it was often described as a plant food, research chemicals or bath salts, and not for human consumption.
Slang: NRG-1, NRG1, Energy-1, Energy1, Rave
The effects
- Naphyrone has a chemical structure which is closely related to other 'cathinone derivatives'. Therefore it may be assumed that it would share the same effects as other cathinones.
- Effects of cathinones are euphoria, talkativeness, alertness and feelings of empathy.
Chances of getting hooked
- Although there is little evidence on naphyrone, like other ‘cathinone derivatives’ it is very likely to be able to create a state of psychological dependence, with increased use associated with increased health harms.
The Law
- Naphyrone was controlled as a Class B drug on the 23rd July 2010 meaning it is illegal to have, give away or sell. Possession can get you up to five years in jail. Supplying someone else, including your friends, can get you up to fourteen years in jail and an unlimited fine.
Appearance and use
- A fine white or off-white/yellow powder – usually snorted like cocaine or swallowed ‘bombed’ in wraps of paper.
Cost
- When legal, it was sold online at between £15 and £25 a gram.
Purity
- Research by Liverpool John Moores University and others, found that when it was sold over the internet, the majority of substances marketed as NRG-1 and NRG-2 didn’t contain naphyrone, but instead contained mephedrone or other controlled cathinones.
The Risks
Naphyrone has a chemical structure which is closely related to 'cathinone derivatives'. Therefore, it is sensible to assume that it would share the same risks as other cathinones.
- Cathinones can cause anxiety, paranoia, overstimulation of the heart and circulatory system and overexcitation of the nervous system (with the risk of fits).
- Other risks include reduced inhibitions, drowsiness, coma, seizures, and death.
- Risks, including the risk of death, could be increased if used with other substances, including alcohol.