Snapshot of narcotic drugs and psychoactive substances in Kuwait: analysis of illicit drugs use in Kuwait from 2015 to 2018

Abstract Background The misuse of illicit substances is associated with increased morbidity and mortality; thus, substance abuse a global health concern. Arabian Gulf region considered crossing point consumer drugs. However, lack laboratory-based research has limited the scientific assessment drug in region. Thus, an up-to-date analytical representation situation warranted. Methods We investigated type quantity detained narcotic drugs psychotropic from 2015 to 2018, representing population approximately 4 million people, addition number abusers mortality among abusers. In total, 6220 cases Narcotic Psychotropic Laboratory 17,755 Forensic Toxicology were reviewed analyzed. Substances identified documented using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry liquid spectrometry. Results Cannabis, including marijuana, was most seized substance, followed by heroin, opium, cocaine. Amphetamines, methamphetamine, form powder or pills, larger quantities than other psychoactive substances. consumed were, order, amphetamines (including methamphetamine), benzodiazepines, cannabis, heroin. identify common postmortem specimens, according sex, suspected drug-related deaths. single methamphetamine. Similarly, multiple-drug cocktail heroin–benzodiazepines, cannabis–benzodiazepines, cannabis–amphetamines, detected frequently. Conclusions data shows that cannabis leading seized. Deaths resulting benzodiazepines heroin highest category, while heroin-benzodiazepines combination deaths category. Methamphetamine abused Kuwait. These findings revealed State Kuwait, suffers scarcity information regarding providing valuable for enforcement, forensic analyst, workers on national international levels.