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Pierluigi S, Laura B, Attilio N, Gurjeet K B, Gloria P, Davide M, Borgherini G, Giovanni M, Fabrizio S, Perini G, Ornella C.
“Marvin, the Paranoid Android: The Case of an Alpha-PVP User in the Expanding Galaxy of NPS”.
J Psychoactive Drugs. 2018 May 16;p1-8.
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Abstract
Alpha-PVP can be defined as a novel psychoactive substance (NPS)--more specifically, a novel synthetic cathinone with unpredictable stimulant effects in humans. Marvin arrived at a Dual Diagnosis Unit at Parco dei Tigli, Italy. He underwent a 30-day rehabilitation program to overcome his problematic Alpha-PVP use as a psychonaut. We conducted an online search to understand the properties of Alpha-PVP and its presence in scientific literature, reviewing official reports and the online drug market (e.g., fora, webpages). In the Dual Diagnosis Unit, Marvin completed the 30-day rehabilitation program that included assessments and group and individual cognitive behavioral therapy. Alpha-PVP is a synthetic cathinone with stimulant properties, available in the online market but with unpredictable effects in humans. The present case reports an important risk of psychosis in a psychonaut patient who arrived and declared its intense use before admission to our Unit. This article describes the psychopathological effects of the novel compound Alpha-PVP in a psychonaut patient. Patients attending clinics that have used Alpha-PVP pose a new challenge for traditional services of mental health and addiction.
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