Drug profiles

Drug profiles are scientifically sound descriptions of drugs in the form of ‘drug profiles’. Presented in a standardised way, each profile briefly gives the chemistry, pharmacology, synthesis and precursors of each substance, as well as analysis, physical form (e.g. powder, tablet) and mode of use (e.g. ingested, snorted, injected). Most of the substances covered are controlled internationally by United Nations conventions. The profiles are available in German, English and French.

• Amphetamine
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines
• BZP and other piperazines
• Cannabis
• Cocaine and crack
• Fentanyl
• Hallucinogenic mushrooms
• Heroin
• Khat
• Kratom
• LSD
• MDMA
• Methamphetamine
• Salvia divinorum
• Synthetic cannabinoids and 'Spice'
• Synthetic cathinones
• Volatile substances

Presented in a standardised way, each profile briefly gives the chemistry, pharmacology, synthesis and precursors of each substance, as well as analysis, physical form (e.g. powder, tablet) and mode of use (e.g. ingested, snorted, injected).

Where appropriate, the profiles also contain sections on prevalence, street price and typical levels of purity, which will be updated annually on the basis of information provided by the Reitox network. Information on possible medical uses and the exact control status of the substances, as well as ‘street names’ and selected images, complete the package.

Since the profiles are intentionally technical, they are accompanied by a short bibliography and brief glossary of chemical and biochemical terms aimed at assisting users.

The profiles were conceived to offer EMCDDA audiences clear and easily accessible information on individual drugs. However, the EMCDDA stresses that the information provided in the profiles (effects, dosages, etc.) should never be used for medical practitioners or self-medication purposes.

The EMCDDA would like to thank: Dr Leslie A. King (amphetamine, BZP and other piperazines, cannabis, cocaine and crack, heroin, khat, MDMA and methamphetamine, synthetic cannabinoids and 'Spice', synthetic cathinones); Dr John Ramsey (LSD, volatile substances); Dr Raymond Niesink (hallucinogenic mushrooms); Professor Des Corrigan (Barbiturates, BDZ, Fentanyl); and Dr István Ujváry (Kratom, Salvia divinorum) for their invaluable contributions to the drug profiles.