Click the image below to download the Drugs Wheel, and scroll down for an explanation of the changes in this version.
The first of the three main changes is the integration of drug effects into the design. This approach was first introduced in the poster by Novadic Kentron for their training package based around the polydrugs version of the Drugs Wheel. Thank you to them.
The second is the blurring of the borders between the drug groups. This illustrates how many drugs and their effects do not fit into rigid categories. Drug effects vary according to many factors, for example dosage and setting.
The third change follows debate over the categorisation of alkyl nitrites (poppers). We have placed these as depressants because their action is different than dissociative drugs - and they generally do not lead to an altered state of consciousness in the same way as ketamine or ether, for example, but result in more of a 'drunk' or 'dizzy' effect.
We have introduced hydrocarbon inhalants such as butane and hexane (found in petrol, glue, and duster gasses). We have placed these in the dissociative category not only for their effects, but also their action. These drugs work by dissolving into the coating around nerves and disrupting electrical signalling, and so require different harm reduction information than alkyl nitrites.
The placements we have selected are not suggested as fact. The Drugs Wheel is a model designed for training and educational purposes, and disagreements make for great discussion!
Other additions: THC-V (seen in 'THC oil' vapes at festivals this year), Kratom (currently popular in the US), Metonitazene (which has been appearing in drug tests in the UK), Medetomidine (a test strip for this will be available soon), psychedelics 4-AcO-DMT and 2C-G, and Mephedrone has been amended as it is now also known as 4-MMC.
Thank you for your ongoing support
Mark, Guy, and Michael