The Chief Sanitary Inspectorate explains:
This synthetic cathinone is classified as a new psychoactive substance (NPS).
It adds: “The compound is an analogue of the psychotropic substances α-PVP and α-PHP (group II-P). Due, among other things, to its delayed effect compared with the aforementioned α-PVP, the substance α-PHiP poses a high risk of overdose and death. Used alone or in combination with other substances, α-PHiP has caused serious poisonings and even deaths.”
This highly addictive substance mainly comes in the form of powder or crystals. After taking α-PHiP, the following may occur:
- excessive agitation;
- hallucinations, delusions, psychosis;
- insomnia;
- loss of appetite and thirst, nausea, photophobia, lockjaw;
- heart function disorders (arrhythmias), increased heart rate (tachycardia), constriction of blood vessels (vasoconstriction), elevated blood pressure, chest pain;
- breathing problems, shortness of breath;
- death.
The Chief Sanitary Inspector reminds the public of the dangers associated with using new drugs, commonly known as “legal highs.” The office says: “Such products are offered in forms including powder, crystals, blotter paper, tablets or liquids for smoking. Their composition and quantity of active substance are not guaranteed.
Moreover, so-called legal highs may contain undeclared and dangerous contaminants that increase the risk of serious poisoning and even death. Taking them means risking the loss of health or life.