This Brief explores emerging trends in drug use and distribution. This timely Brief examines
recent examples of emerging drugs including salvia (from the plant Salvia divinorum) bath
salts (and other synthetic stimulants) and so-called research chemicals (primarily substituted
phenethylamines synthetic cousins of ecstasy) which have tended to receive brief levels of
high intensity media coverage that may or may not reflect an actual increase in their usage.
Over the past decade in particular new substances being used recreationally seem to come out
of obscurity and gain rapid popularity particularly spurred on by discussion and distribution
over the internet. While changing trends in the drug market have always presented a challenge
for law enforcement and public health officials online forums media coverage and other recent
trends discussed in this Brief allow them to gain popularity more quickly and change more
frequently. These rapid shifts allow less time for researchers to understand the potential
health consequences of these substances and for law enforcement to stay abreast of abuses of
legal substances. This work includes: 1) review of relevant research and literature 2) review
the Internet sources in which many deem important in influencing the emerging drug market 3)
discussion of national and international trends in use abuse and distribution of these
substances and 4) examination of current drug policy and recommendations for the future. This
brief will be useful for criminology and criminal justice sociology and public health. It will
also be useful for those that deal with youth and the problems that may develop during
adolescence and early adulthood.
