Club drugs

The term club drugs refers to a variety of substances which are frequently used in the context of dance events or raves. MDMA - or more commonly ecstasy -, amphetamines, especially methamphetamine, ketamine and newly also GHB (and analoga) are frequently used club drugs. The spectrum of psychoactive effects of theses substances is broad and ranges from stimulant, entactogenig, halluzinogenic, to sedative aspects. Studies show that clubbers can be characterized by their high consumption of several substances; thus, can be considered a potential high risk group. Besides the classical club drug ecstasy more common substances such as alcohol, cannabis, and cocaine are also highly prevalent. The general practitioner has a key function in the early intervention and treatment of potentially problematic club drug users. It seems important that users are being informed in a balanced and evidenced based manner about possible risks associated with their drug use. In order to perform a psychosocial risk assessment an encompassing perspective should be adopted.