DASH - Isle of Man Drug Advice Helpline


The information on these pages is designed to give you and idea of what drugs do and the risks involved. As a service, we accept that drug use is part of the World and Island we live in today and are here to help if you need us. Drug use is risky, there are no regulations on illegal drugs (such as strength or content) and so you’ll never know what you’ve really bought. We want you to be safe and make informed decisions – it could affect the rest of your life. If your drugs use, or that of a friend, family member or colleague is causing you concern, don’t be ashamed or afraid to get in touch if you need help or support.

NAPHYRONE
(NRG-1, ENERGY1)

CLASSIFICATION -

CLASS B DRUG AS OF 23.7.2010

What is it? Naphyrone, is a white crystalline powder sold under brand names such as NRG-1, NRg-2, Energy 1. Naphthylpyrovalerone (shortened to Naphyrone) is a drug derived from pyrovalerone which produces stimulant effects and currently marketed as a 'designer drug' or 'legal high'. Pyrovalerone, once prescribed for fatigue is a class C drug.

It is often snorted or swallowed in a cigarette paper, a technique known as 'bombing'.

Why do people use it? Since Mephedrone became a controlled substance, some people may have switched from using Mephedrone. Because it's so new it doesn't have a long recreational usage history, but generally the same reason why anyone takes drugs. They do because they 'can', they are experimenting, they enjoy the buzz or for others, because they've got used to other substances with similar effects and have moved on to this one.

Is it addictive?

Any stimulant type drug has the potential for psychological dependency. For some people going out is not the same without having pills or potions. To them it's part of the evening. Gradually it can creep up and suddenly they feel they can't possibly have a good time without it. For others, the feelings of depression, tiredness and irritability felt for the next few days after use may be too much and the further use of stimulants to bring them 'up' again can lead to a cycle that they find is difficult to get off. The danger with this substance is it's fast acting effects which are more likely to lead to dependency.

How dangerous is it really?

1. It's a stimulant drug, it's not been tested as a recreational drug over time, it's pretty new but we know it is a strong stimulant so we would look at the problems that causes. Naphyrone is more toxic than chemicals that are chemically similar like Mephedrone. In other words, uses of Mephedrone taking the same dose of NRG-1 could have an overdose.

2. Stimulant drugs increase the heart rate and blood pressure this in turn increases temperature. Combine this with lots of dancing in a hot, sweaty and sometimes overcrowded venue or house party and it can lead to dehydration through sweating. Mixing with alcohol adds to dehydration and further overheating. Dehydration can be avoided by taking regular breaks from dancing, chill out, sip non alcoholic drinks (not fizzy) or an isotonic drink over an hour. See what to do in case of dehydration/heatstroke below.

3. REPORTS IN - From recent conversations with users we can only report what's coming to us and that's extreme paranoia for a number of days, exhaustion, terrifying hallucinations and missing days. There are plenty who say they would never use it again.

4. CHECK THE DOSE - Dose for dose NRG-1 is stronger than Mephedrone so overdose risk increases where someone uses a large amount than the body is used to. Mix that with Alcohol and the risks climb steeply.

5. DO NOT MIX WITH ALCOHOL. We say this for all drugs - not for kill-joy purposes but for the fact it is true. Adding Alcohol (which is a depressant) to any drugs and in particular stimulant-type drugs can cause serious consequences. Overdose risks are very very high.

6. TAKING PILLS TO COPE WITH COME DOWN - some people think it is a good idea to take substances like valium to help with the come-down, to help with the twitches and the get some sleep. Again your risk of overdose is high - very high if you have had alcohol as well. If you're not prepared to cope with down don't go up.

7. The test purchasing by the ACMD in the UK found a number of NRG-1 samples contained Mephedrone not NRG-1. So it was an illegal drug sold under the name (at the time) of a legal drug. If you are caught with NRG-1 and on testing it is found to contain Mephedrone you are still committing an offence. The Home Office have classified it as a Class B drug as of Friday 23rd July 2010 which also APPLIES IN THE ISLE OF MAN. Other tests have shown repeatedly that batches of NRG-1 are not NRG-1 but Mephedrone or MDPV - both Class B drugs.

It is still fairly new and again like Mephedrone, sneaking round the trades description dressed up as a Plant Food, pond cleaner or Bath Salts - which it isn't.

If you have been using Mephedrone and moved on to NRG-1 and you spend a number of days doing that then maybe it's time to get some help - call our confidential service on 615622 or email us help@drugs.org.im.

Stimulant drugs can make people aggressive, moody and strung out so families and colleagues often feel the brunt of it. If you are struggling to cope as a family get in touch today. 615622.

As with other stimulant type drugs, use over a period of time can leave you paranoid. Anyone with a history of mental health problems should steer clear. Pre or existing mental health problems can be set off again or made worse. Stimulant use can lead to mood swings, panic attacks, depression and anxiety.

TIPS TO STAY SAFE

Don't do it on your own - if something goes wrong no one will know.

Dose for dose, NRG-1 is far stronger than Mephedrone, and whilst it too is not for human consumption, those used to taking Mephedrone (particularly heavy users) should not take the same amount of NRG-1.
People need to be aware that if they think they’re buying Mephedrone it may be something else (like NRG-1 or MDPV) or cut with something which may cause an unexpected reaction.
If you experience chest pains, loss of speech, numbness or feel unwell seek medical advice immediately.
If you do use these or have friends who use them, then make sure you know what the signs are and what to do in the event of overdose, chest pains or stroke
Do not mix any drugs – especially alcohol with these types of stimulant drugs, the risk of overdose increases.
Taking any stimulant-type drug on a regular basis can lead to dependency. If you can’t stop using this or other types of drugs then seek help.
Do not share tubes for snorting the drug to reduce the risk of contracting Hepatitis C
Tell your mates what you’ve taken just in case something goes wrong.
Avoid alcohol as this dehydrates your body & increases the risk of overdose.

SPOT THE SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE

Feeling hot and unwell

Have trouble peeing and when it does come out it’s very dark

Body failing to sweat

Legs or arms may get cramps.

These are warning signs that your body is overheating.
Know what to do, you could save a life.

If you have the warning signs – get help immediately

If someone collapses, CALL AN AMBULANCE STRAIGHT AWAY. Loosen clothing, put them in the recovery position so they don’t choke if they vomit.

If they’re burning hot, cool them down by fanning or splashing with cold water – do not try and give someone water if they’re unconscious.

Phone an ambulance.

Tell the ambulance crew when they arrive, what has been taken, they need to know. You won’t get into trouble for saving someone’s life.

MIXING NRG-1 WITH OTHER DRUGS

Answer to that question is DON'T. It's not worth the risk. That includes medication you are prescribed, over the counter medicine for colds or anything like that or even some tablets you found lying around - don't take it at the same time. You have absolutely no way of knowing what the powder containes whether you bought it on the Internet 'shop' or not.

FURTHER INFO ON NRG-1

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