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The practice of abusing substances has been in existence for centuries. Besides using the traditional ways to feel high, people in recent times, have started experimenting with comparatively newer and more interesting ways to feel high.
Due to the above reason, the concept of "new psychoactive substances" (also known as NPS or "legal highs") came into existence. NPS, also referred to as legal intoxicants, K2, Spice, bath salts, herbal incense or synthetic marijuana, are drugs that contain one or more chemical substances. They produce effects that are similar to illegal drugs such as cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy.
Though marketed as a safe alternative to illicit drugs, NPS are neither completely legal nor entirely prohibited by the drug laws. In fact, NPS are being developed at a much faster pace since they are easily available at places such as gas stations and even online. Due to the misperception that NPS are comparatively safer than other categories of drugs, youngsters are increasingly abusing them.
As per the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), 643 new psychoactive substances were registered in the UNODC Early Warning Advisory on NPS as of December 2015. The World Drug Report 2016 also noted that 75 new NPS, a majority of them belonging to synthetic cannabinoids (21), synthetic cathinones (20) and phenethylamines (9), emerged for the first time in 2015. In fact, 21 other substances, structurally diverse and different from the above categories, also reportedly emerged for the first time in 2015.
Understanding different categories of psychoactive substances
NPS are available in a variety of forms, such as powder, pills, liquid, capsules, perforated tabs and smoking mixtures. A number of abusers also inject these drugs to get high. NPS are often marketed as plant food, bath salts or incense. These can be harmful to one's health.
The NPS are divided into four main categories as mentioned below:

* Synthetic cannabinoids: Traded under names such as herbal incense or potpourri, synthetic cannabinoids are commonly known as synthetic marijuana, K2 or Ayahuasca Tea Spice. They not only act on the brain in the same way as cannabis but also mimics similar effects. By abusing NPS, one can experience severe effects, such as rapid heart rate, vomiting, violent behavior and suicidal thoughts.
* Stimulant-type drugs: Drugs, such as BZP, mephedrone, MPDV, etc., usually mimic substances, such as amphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy. A person is likely to feel highly energized, physically active, euphoric, etc. after using these drugs.
* Downer/tranquilizer-type drugs: Impersonating the effects of a tranquilizer or anti-anxiety drug, particularly from the benzodiazepine family, tranquilizer-type drugs include Etizolam, Pyrazolam and Flubromazepam. These drugs can make one euphoric, relaxed and sleepy, as well as reduce inhibitions and concentration.
* Psychedelic/hallucinogenic drugs: These drugs act like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and magic mushrooms. Hallucinogenic drugs, including drugs like 25I-NBOMe, Bromo-DragonFly and ketamine-like methoxetamine, can create altered perceptions, ecstasy, etc. Effects of NPS abuse
The effects of NPS vary from drug to drug as each of these has different chemical compositions, which, in turn, can potentially cause numerous dangerous health consequences. Besides the common effects, such as vomiting, agitation, confusion, etc., one can even witness death in some cases.
A few other effects of NPS abuse are:

* Overdose
* Temporary psychotic state
* Unpredictable behavior
* Sudden increase in body temperature and heart rate
* Increased risk of coma
* Aggression
* Mental health issues, such as psychosis, paranoia, etc. Implement stringent laws to curb NPS abuse
Due to the usage of the word "legal" with NPS, many consider it safe for consumption, which has created many misconceptions about it. Therefore, it is essential for the government bodies to frame stringent laws and spread awareness to curb their abuse.