News and discussion about new and emerging drugs and drug markets continues in the wider community and among Youth AOD workers. What are the implications for practice?

This media report from the Herald Sun as well as this one from Yahoo highlight that the online buying and selling of drugs seems to be unaffected by the closure of the now famous “silk road”  online drug market.

The rise of online drug markets may have implications if young people you work with access their drugs in this way. A common harm reduction tip for young people is “know your dealer, know what you are getting and be sure about the quality” What will online purchasing mean for this? On the flip side, ordering drugs from the comfort and safety of your house or internet café may take some of the risks out of buying drugs in a street market.

At YoDAA we’ve tried to keep you up to date with new and emerging trends. Don’t forget to check out our articles on some newer drugs such as mephadrone, Nbome, synthetic cannabis and other new and emerging drugs. Check out our recent news article about synthetic cannabis.