The Netherlands - State Secretary Paul Blokhuis of Public Health has decided to severely restrict legal access to designer drug 3-MMC by placing it on List II of prohibited substances under the Opium Act. The decision was taken out of concern that the drug, which is associated with numerous health risks, is becoming increasingly popular among young people in the Netherlands.
“The legal status gives this drug a false, innocent image, we have to get rid of that as soon as possible. It is dangerous stuff that we have to protect ourselves against by warning our youth, ”said Minister of Health Mr Blokhuis.
The ban on 3-MMC is expected to take effect in the fall of 2021. The drug is already illegal in most countries. The purpose of limiting access is to alert the public that the use of 3-MMC can lead to serious health risks. Cardiac arrhythmias, increased blood pressure, or high body temperature are among the health problems associated with the use of the drug.
According to the Coordination Point for the Evaluation and Monitoring of New Medicines (CAM), the number of health emergencies after the use of 3-MMC is increasing. In addition, due to its current legal status, the drug was very easy and widely available.
“3-MMC is becoming increasingly popular, especially among young people. We are receiving worrying signals about this drug from various parts of the country. I am pleased that the CAM has arrived at an assessment in such a short time, so that we can now take action ”, says Blokhuis.
The CAM also recommends making users of 3-MMC aware of the negative health effects of its use. That is why, in addition to the ban, the supervisory authority will also endeavor to provide information and improve prevention.
Sources ao CCEIT (EN), NLTimes (EN), nos (NL)
