Erowid References Database
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Brandt SD, Sumnall HR, Measham F, Cole J.
“The confusing case of NRG-1”.
BMJ. 2010;341:c3564.
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Abstract
Since the recent ban on mephedrone, several alternative products have been introduced on internet websites. One of the most prominently discussed second generation products is Energy 1 NRG-1, also advertised as naphyrone naphthylpyrovalerone, O-2482, which originated from a group of compounds previously described in the medicinal chemistry literature.
These products are offered as legal substitutes for the recently criminalised 'legal highs,' the mephedrone derivatives. One of the earlier studies exploring the motivation for using these drugs suggested that consumers think that they are more likely to be of higher purity than street drugs, carry a lower risk of physical harm, and not be liable for the criminal sanctions associated with drugs controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act.4
To obtain an initial snapshot of the post-ban situation, we purchased 17 products online from 12 UK based websites over the six weeks after the ban on mephedrone in mid-April 2010. Chemical analysis was carried out by established procedures.
NRG-1 and NRG-2 products purchased online from UK based websites in the 6 weeks after the ban on mephedrone.
Most of the NRG-type products were recently banned cathinones that just carried a new label this suggests that both consumers and online sellers are, most likely without knowledge, at risk of criminalisation and potential harm. This has important health and criminal justice consequences that will require carefully thought out responses and further investigation.
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