On the 23rd July 2010, naphyrone (aka NRG-1, Energy-1 or Rave) and related compounds were classified under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 as class B drugs. That means it is now illegal to possess, give away or sell naphyrone. Possession can get you up to five years in jail. Supplying someone else, including your friends, can get you up to fourteen years in jail and an unlimited fine.

What is NRG-1?

Naphyrone is a stimulant drug closely related to ‘cathinone derivatives’ including mephedrone. These are a group of drugs that are ‘cousins’ of the family of amphetamine compounds which include amphetamine itself (speed), methamphetamine and ecstasy (MDMA), among many others.

Before its was controlled as a class B drug, it was known as a ‘legal high’ and sold online, often as research chemicals, plant food, bath crystals or pond cleaner.

Naphyrone shares similar effects to other cathinones: euphoria, talkativeness, alertness and feelings of empathy.  

Why has it been controlled?

Its classification under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, follows a recommendation from an independent body of experts, the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD).

The high potency of naphyrone by comparison with other cathinones like mephedrone suggests that it is likely to be associated with a higher risk of accidental overdose. It is also thought that the use of naphyrone could:
•    have an adverse effect on the heart and blood vessels
•    bring on hyperthermia
•    impact adversely on mental health causing anxiety and psychosis
•    lead to psychological dependence

What about NRG-2?

NRG-2 is another brand name used by sellers, marketing ‘legal highs’. A branded product like this may actually contain any number of illegal cathinones. What you think is ‘legal’, may in fact be a class B drug, with serious health risks.

The future of ‘legal highs’

The Government has announced that it will introduce a new system of temporary bans on new ‘legal highs’ while the health issues can be considered by the ACMD.

>>Visit the naphyrone page