15.09 Examining the neurological consequences of new psychoactive substances -'legal highs'. Issue 12 (14th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jones, Rebekah; Kelleher, Charles; Tanti, Matthew; Cosgrove, Jeremy; Maguire, Melissa
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 90:Issue 12(2019)
• Page Start: e6
• Page End: e7
• Publication Date: 2019-11-14
• Subjects: Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2019-ABN-2.19
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Background: New psychoactive substances (NPS) are of global concern accounting for increasing deaths in the UK. We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients attending Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust with NPS abuse during 2016–2017 and report neurological presentations and outcomes. Methods: We identified 227 records of NPS attendances through electronic searches using Symphony electronic software. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from case-note review. Results: Average age was 34, 82% were male. Two thirds were unemployed, 17% prisoners, 9% students and 4% prison workers. 'Spice' accounted for the majority of presentations (90%). 4-methyl methcathinone ('MCAT') accounted for 8% of presentations. The remainder reported nitrous oxide (NOS) use. In the spice subgroup, 52% had low GCS, 20% had seizures. Ventilatory support was required in two cases (1%). In the MCAT subgroup, average GCS was 14 and 20% of patients presented with seizure. Psychiatric disturbance was higher in MCAT group (30%). Most patients (62%) were observed in the emergency department and then discharged. Only 3% were referred to the drug and alcohol team. Conclusions: Spice accounted for the majority of NPS presentations. Unemployed single men were particularly at risk. Low GCS and seizures were the commonest presentations, with most requiring observation only.