Legal highs and Halloween 2025 – A fact-based guide for adult consumers

Halloween is no longer just a children's holiday. In many cities, October 31st transforms into a huge party with costumes, music, dancing, and a certain tendency to push boundaries. For some people between the ages of 21 and 45, psychoactive substances are part of this scenario. For several years now, so-called " legal highs" have been appearing more and more frequently in party contexts, alongside classic drugs like alcohol, cannabis, and MDMA. Products such as 3-FPO , 3,4-ETMC , and 1S-LSD are marketed by smart shops as legal alternatives to prohibited stimulants or psychedelics. But what's behind this? What effects do these substances actually have, what is their legal status in autumn 2025, and what risks are particularly associated with Halloween? This comprehensive blog post answers these questions, analyzes the marketing strategies of the suppliers, and provides safer-use advice for responsible consumers.

The term "legal highs" refers to psychoactive substances that can produce effects similar to known illegal drugs, but which, at the time of sale, are not (yet) explicitly covered by the Narcotics Act (BtMG) or the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). These are often chemically slightly modified derivatives of known active ingredients. These modifications are minor, but can be sufficient to exploit an existing legal loophole. Manufacturers and dealers often market these substances using terms that evoke associations with known drugs (e.g., "legal MDMA" or "Ritalin alternative"), but without explicitly encouraging their use. This blog has no promotional intent; rather, it aims to provide an objective, scientifically sound presentation for informed adults.

Historical background

The first so-called designer drugs appeared as early as the 1980s. At that time , MDMA (Ecstasy) became the drug of choice in club culture; simultaneously, the first novel tryptamines and phenethylamines appeared in niche circles. With the enactment of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) in Germany in 2016, legislators responded to the dynamic nature of newly developed substances by regulating entire groups of substances across the board. Nevertheless, chemists and dealers repeatedly find loopholes: by exchanging a functional atom or extending a side chain, a new molecule is created that, while producing a similar effect, is initially not covered by the law. International authorities and research institutions – above all the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and the WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD) – are closely monitoring this development. They warn that a lack of data on toxicity and long-term risks is a key problem.

Why are legal highs so prevalent at Halloween?

Halloween is a ritual of pushing boundaries: costumes, a spooky atmosphere, and a boisterous party mood create an environment where inhibitions are lowered. Younger adults, in particular, experiment with new substances out of curiosity. Manufacturers and smart shops capitalize on this occasion by offering special Halloween bundles with fluorescent packaging, candy-like forms, or themed names like "Zombie Rush." ​​The appeal stems from several factors:

• Belief in lower risk: Many consumers assume that a "legal" product is inherently less harmful than a prohibited drug. This perception is reinforced by marketing-friendly terms such as "research chemical" or "high-purity analytical."
• Fear of prosecution: Anyone wanting to attend a Halloween party without running afoul of narcotics laws believes they are on safe ground with legal highs. In reality, buyers and consumers are operating in a gray area that can quickly change due to legal adjustments.
• Exotic promises: New substances suggest unique effects. Many smartshops advertise that their RC substances are "more focusing than speed", "with less of a hangover than MDMA", or "psychedelic, but clearer".

The problem: The promises are rarely based on clinical trials. Consumers become test subjects on their own bodies. Below, we analyze three prominent RC representatives – 3-FPO , 3,4-ETMC , and 1S-LSD – and assess their effects, risks, and legal status.

1. 3‑FPO (3‑fluorophenmetrazine)

Chemical structure and pharmacological properties

3-FPO, also known as 3-FPM or 3-fluorophenmetrazine, is a fluorinated derivative of the drug phenmetrazine . It belongs to the class of phenylmorpholines . Chemically, it can be described as 2-(3-fluorophenyl)-3-methylmorpholine – a morpholine ring with a fluorine atom on the phenyl ring. This structural modification results in a compound that was long not listed under the German Narcotics Act (BtMG). Pharmacologically, 3-FPO acts as a psychostimulant by promoting the release of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine . This produces typical effects such as increased energy, alertness, heightened attention, and mild euphoria. Users often report that 3-FPO makes them "clear-headed" and provides focus – it is therefore sometimes marketed as a "study drug."

Effect profile

The acute effects of 3-FPO begin orally after 30–60 minutes, and nasally after 10–20 minutes. The main effect lasts 2–4 hours, followed by a decline over 1–2 hours. Typical experiences include:

• Energy and concentration: Many users report feeling awake, focused, and talkative.
• Mild euphoria and empathy: The mood elevation is moderate and often described as pleasant, without the intense euphoria of MDM.A.
• Appetite suppression: As with other stimulants, hunger decreases.

Physiologically, pulse and blood pressure increase, and dry mouth, jaw clenching, and mild sweating occur. Depending on the dose, restlessness, insomnia, and, in cases of overdose, seizures may occur. Long-term effects are poorly understood; however, due to its similarity to amphetamines, it has a potential for addiction.

Dosage and forms of administration

Smartshops usually offer 3-FPO as a powder or in tablets/pellets. It is consumed orally (in capsules or dissolved in drinks) or nasally. Experiences from forums indicate:

• Low dose: 10–20 mg (to get acquainted with the drug)
• Usual dose: 30–50 mg, often divided into several doses
• High dose: ≥60 mg

The relatively short duration of action encourages redosing , which increases stress on the cardiovascular system and raises the risk of insomnia, dehydration, and psychological problems.

Risks and side effects

3-FPO carries the classic risks of a stimulant:

• Cardiovascular stress: tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias.
• Neurotoxicity: Animal studies on similar amphetamines suggest that repeated use may damage the dopaminergic system.
• Psychological problems: Overdoses can lead to anxiety, paranoia, or acute psychosis.
• Dependence: Repeated redosing leads to tolerance and craving. The "crash" after the effects wear off manifests as fatigue, depressed mood, and irritability.

Legal situation in October 2025

In Germany, 3-FPO has been prohibited under the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) since 2019. Its manufacture, trade, and possession for personal use are punishable offenses. It remains solely for research purposes. Consumers who purchase 3-FPO under the guise of legality have therefore been operating illegally for years. Germany is not alone in this prohibition; 3-FPO is also banned in Switzerland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. The WHO-ECDD conducted a critical review in 2020 but, due to a lack of data, did not recommend its international classification under the UN Convention – however, this does not mean that the substance is safe.

2. 3,4-ETMC (3,4-ethylene methcathinone)

Chemical structure and mode of action

3,4-ETMC is a relatively new synthetic cathinone , a beta-ketone amphetamine derivative. Structurally, it resembles the better-known methylone (bk-MDMA), but instead of a methylenedioxy bridge, it has a two-membered ethylenedioxy bridge between positions 3 and 4 of the phenyl ring. Furthermore, 3,4-ETMC possesses a methylamino group on the beta-ketone, similar to 3-MMC or 4-MMC. It could be described as a "legal analogue" to methylone and mephedrone. This modified ring structure is intended to ensure that the molecule does not fall under the general formulations of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG).

Pharmacologically, 3,4-ETMC acts as a monoamine reuptake inhibitor and releaser , inhibiting the reuptake and promoting the release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin . This explains its combination of stimulating and mildly empathogenic effects. Users describe it as "speed light"—a strong stimulant effect, but only mild empathy. Serotonergic empathogenicity is less pronounced than that of MDMA; one feels alert, talkative, and in a good mood, without deep emotional connection.

Effect profile and duration

The effects begin orally after 20–40 minutes, nasally after 5–15 minutes. The main phase lasts 1–3 hours, with a total duration estimated at 4–6 hours. A characteristic feature is an intense peak followed by a pronounced fall. Strong after-effects often occur immediately after the effects subside: irritability, a feeling of emptiness, and exhaustion ("crash"). Many users complain that the comedown from 3,4-ETMC is harsher than from MDMA—possibly due to the lack of the serotonergic "happy hormone" that MDMA provides.

Dosage and forms of administration

3,4-ETMC is sold as a white powder. It can be swallowed in capsules or administered nasally. Anecdotal evidence suggests:

• Light dose: 20–30 mg (for testing)
• Typical "party dose": 40–60 mg
• High dose: 80–100 mg or more

Often, only half the oral amount is used nasally, as the effect is more intense and sets in faster; however, the powder burns strongly on the mucous membranes.

Risks and side effects

The dangers of 3,4-ETMC are manifold:

• Severe strain on the circulatory system: rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, overheating, and dehydration. The risk of hyperthermia increases, especially when dancing in warm clubs.
• Serotonin syndrome in mixed use: The combination with empathogenic substances such as MDMA can lead to a dangerous serotonin syndrome.
• Craving and addiction: Like mephedrone, 3,4-ETMC has a pronounced redosing potential. Its short duration of action tempts users to repeatedly dose, leading to sleep deprivation and psychological distress.
• Psychological after-effects: After the effects wear off, irritability, dysphoria and depressive moods often occur.
• Unknown long-term effects: Since 3,4-ETMC has only recently entered circulation, data on long-term neurotoxic and cardiotoxic effects are lacking.

3. 1S-LSD – the silicon-LSD

Chemical characteristics and origin

1S-LSD is a synthetic lysergamide derivative closely related to LSD, but it features a trimethylsilyl propionyl group at the indole nitrogen position N1 . This unusual silicon-containing side chain makes 1S-LSD a so-called "silicone LSD." It was developed after Germany banned several LSD analogs (including 1D-LSD) in 2024. Due to the chemical modification, the molecule initially remained outside the scope of the German Narcotics Act (NpSG), making it legal even though it is partially metabolized to LSD in the body and thus functions as a prodrug . 1S-LSD is usually sold as hemi-D-tartrate on blotter paper, in pellets, or as drops.

Effect and duration

1S-LSD acts—similar to LSD—as a psychedelic through partial agonist activity at the 5-HT₂A serotonin receptor. Users report intense visual hallucinations, altered perceptions of space and time, heightened emotional sensitivity, and a flood of introspective thoughts. The effects begin within 30–90 minutes; the peak is reached after 2–4 hours; the total duration is 8–12 hours. Typical accompanying physical symptoms include dilated pupils, a slight increase in heart rate, and possibly nausea. Negative experiences ("bad trips") involving anxiety or panic are possible, especially in an uncertain set and setting.

Dosage and forms of administration

Typical doses are 100–150 µg per blotter or pellet. Because 1S-LSD acts as a prodrug, its onset and duration of effects may be slightly different compared to LSD; precise pharmacokinetic data are lacking. Users should be especially careful with their dosage, as blotters with extremely high concentrations (150 µg or more) have occasionally been found on the black market. Even half a unit can trigger an intense trip.

Risks and side effects

The risks of 1S-LSD are largely the same as those of LSD. A suitable mindset and setting are important.

• Psychological stress: Hallucinogens can cause or exacerbate latent mental disorders (psychoses, anxiety disorders).
• Bad trip: In an unsuitable atmosphere (e.g., with Halloween horror decorations), intense visual impressions can lead to fear and confusion. Relaxing music, a familiar environment, and a trip sitter are recommended.
• Flashbacks: Occasionally, brief episodes of reliving the experience occur weeks after consumption. This "Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder" (HPPD) is rare but distressing.
• Unknown peculiarities: Since 1S-LSD is still largely unexplored, specific toxic effects cannot be ruled out.

Legal situation in October 2025

In October 2025, 1S-LSD is (still) legal in Germany because it is not explicitly listed under the current substance groups of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). However, the Federal Council is planning to expand the lysergamide group, making a ban on this and related "silicone LSDs" likely. Austria and Switzerland already added 1S-LSD to their lists of prohibited substances in 2023. Consumers should assume that legal status is only temporary and can change quickly. Furthermore, even if 1S-LSD is legal, this does not preclude the possibility that possession or sale violates other regulations (e.g., pharmaceutical or chemical laws).

4. Mixed use and interactions

Stimulants plus alcohol

Combining stimulants like 3-FPO or 3,4-ETMC with alcohol is extremely risky. Alcohol has a depressant effect, while stimulants stimulate the nervous system. This opposing effect leads to unpredictable strain on the cardiovascular system . Furthermore, stimulants mask the subjective feeling of intoxication, causing those affected to drink more alcohol than they can tolerate – a common cause of alcohol poisoning. The liver has to metabolize both alcohol and stimulant simultaneously; organ damage is possible.

Stimulants plus empathogenic substances

The combination of 3,4-ETMC with empathogenic drugs such as MDMA increases serotonin release and carries the risk of serotonin syndrome . This life-threatening condition manifests as high fever, muscle tremors, confusion, and seizures. Both substances individually put a strain on the heart and circulatory system; together, they potentiate these risks.

Multiple stimulants at the same time

3,4-ETMC combined with amphetamine or cocaine has additive effects on the central nervous system. Hypertensive crises, stroke, or heart attack can result. Psychotic episodes and paranoid delusions are also possible. Experts classify this combination as "extremely risky."

Psychedelics plus stimulants

Mixing LSD or 1S-LSD with 3,4-ETMC increases the risk of a bad trip : The stimulant component intensifies anxiety and paranoia. The trip is experienced as rushed and uncontrollable. Therefore, drug counseling centers explicitly advise against it.

Psychedelics plus alcohol or cannabis

Alcohol combined with LSD can unpredictably intensify hallucinations. Cannabis – often used for relaxation – can also intensify the trip, overwhelming inexperienced users. Those consuming 1S-LSD should avoid other psychoactive substances.

Medications

Many people between the ages of 21 and 45 regularly take medication (e.g., antidepressants, blood pressure medication, stimulants for ADHD). These medications can interact with legal highs. SSRI antidepressants and 1S-LSD/3,4-ETMC can together lead to serotonin syndrome, and beta-blockers can mask the heartbeat while blood pressure continues to rise. It is essential to consult a doctor before taking any such medication.

5. Legal Highs and Halloween – Specific Dangers

Several risk factors converge around Halloween, making the use of legal highs particularly dangerous:

5.1 Creepy atmosphere and psychedelics

Halloween events are characterized by dark decorations, horror films, fog machines, and costumes designed to shock. For people under the influence of 1S-LSD, these stimuli can be disturbing. Hallucinations become more difficult to distinguish from reality; fear and panic can be more easily triggered in a realistically staged horror world. A calm, familiar environment is particularly recommended for first-time users. A party club full of "zombies" and "vampires" is not a suitable setting.

5.2 Overheating and Dehydration

Stimulants raise body temperature, suppress thirst, and encourage dancing. In a poorly ventilated club, crowded with people in costumes and alcohol, body temperature can rise dangerously. Symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, dry mouth, or a hot head are warning signs. Hyperthermia and kidney failure are potential risks. Adequate fluid intake (but not excessive amounts of water) and regular breaks are essential.

5.3 Anonymity through costumes and masks

Many people wear masks at Halloween parties, which changes social interaction. Someone needing help due to a bad trip could remain undetected behind a costume. Bystanders might interpret strange behavior as part of the costume. The risk of failing to recognize medical emergencies increases. Groups should make agreements to observe each other and watch for signs such as dizziness, collapse, or sudden fear.

5.4 Availability of legal cannabis products

Since March 2024, possession of small amounts of cannabis and the private cultivation of up to three plants has been legal in Germany. The first cannabis social clubs launched in pilot regions in July 2024. Many adults combine recreational cannabis with recreational drugs (RCs) or psychedelics on Halloween. This combination can increase psychological stress and have unpredictable effects. Anyone consuming cannabis should avoid additional RCs or at least drastically reduce the dosage.

5.5 Novelty and inexperience

Many partygoers try a research chemical (RC) for the first time on Halloween without any experience regarding its effects, dosage, or risks. Without reliable information about purity and potency, even a small mistake (e.g., double the dosage) can have serious consequences. When buying from smart shops, despite supposed "lab quality," there is never a guarantee that the stated milligrams are accurate. The powder may also contain impurities or entirely different substances. Drug checking services are only offered to a very limited extent in Germany (e.g., in Berlin as part of a scientific project).

6. Marketing strategies of smart shops

6.1 Linguistic Tricks

Smart shops strategically use language to appeal to potential buyers without explicitly encouraging purchases. Typical strategies include:

• Analogies to well-known drugs: 3,4-ETMC is described as "legal MDMA"; 3-FPO as a "Ritalin alternative". This suggests to customers that they know what to expect.
• Note regarding research purpose: The products are declared as "Research Chemicals," "not intended for human consumption." At the same time, the text describes the subjective effects in detail and provides dosage instructions.
• Professionalism is conveyed through laboratory language: Certificates of Analysis (CoA) are highlighted, purity levels of ≥ 99% are mentioned, and quality promises are made. This is intended to increase trust.
• Emphasis on legal status: Phrases like "100% legal in Germany", "discreet shipping", or "no fear of the law" are prominently displayed. This creates the impression that it is a safe alternative to illegal drugs.

6.2 Halloween Special Offers

During the Halloween season, some shops offer special packages. Colorful pictures of fluorescent capsules and gummy bear blotters appear on social media channels alongside pumpkins. Some shops organize contests ("Guess the molecule, win a discount"), while others advertise with "Trick or Treat – only while supplies last." Such promotions encourage impulse purchases and put legal highs in the spotlight of Halloween preparations. It's important to recognize these marketing tricks and not be swayed by them without thinking.

6.3 Ethical Critique

Numerous expert bodies accuse suppliers of prioritizing economic profit over health risks . By portraying research chemicals (RC) products as legal, high-quality, and harmless, they conceal the sometimes severe side effects and the lack of knowledge about long-term consequences. At the same time, they exploit the absence of clear legal regulations. Consumer protection agencies and addiction prevention centers are calling for stricter regulations, clear labeling requirements, and a ban on advertising psychoactive substances.

7. Safer-use tips for adult consumers

This blog is not an endorsement of consumption. Following a pragmatic harm reduction approach, the following advice is intended for those who choose to consume despite the risks described. Abstaining is always the safest option. Those who nevertheless decide to consume should consider the following points:

1. Inform yourself before consuming: Read scientific sources, personal accounts, and consult drug-checking results. Ignorance increases the risk.
2. Set & Setting: Especially with psychedelics, one's mindset and environment are crucial for a positive and safe trip. Halloween parties are unsuitable for this.
3. Start low, go slow: Begin with a very low dose and wait a sufficient amount of time (even 1-2 hours) before taking another dose. The effects and duration can vary considerably.
4. Do not mix: Avoid mixing substances, especially with alcohol, other stimulants, empathogens, or medications. The interactions are unpredictable.
5. Hydration & Breaks: When taking stimulants, drink small amounts of water regularly and take breaks. Excessive water consumption (several liters in a short time) can lead to hyponatremia.
6. Sober Sitter: When using psychedelic substances, a sober, trustworthy person should be present who can help in case of emergency.
7. Pay attention to warning signs: rapid heartbeat, heavy sweating, confusion, seizures – call medical help immediately (emergency number 112). Better safe than sorry!
8. Check your health status: Anyone with heart problems, high blood pressure or pre-existing mental health conditions should completely avoid such substances.
9. Do not drive or operate machinery: Even if you feel awake, your reaction time is impaired. Driving under the influence is a criminal offense.
10. After use: Plan for sufficient sleep and rest. Do not take any new stimulants the following day to bridge the crash. If depressive symptoms appear, contact counseling services or doctors.

8. Legal developments and political discussions

8.1 Legal Dynamics in Germany

The New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) was introduced in 2016 to enable legislators to react quickly to new psychoactive substances. Since then, several substance groups have been added annually. Examples include the ban on 3-FPO in 2019 and on various LSD derivatives (1P-LSD, 1B-LSD, 1D-LSD) in 2024. A legal process is underway in 2025 regarding 3,4-ETMC and 1S-LSD: The Federal Council is debating whether the cathinone and lysergamide groups should be expanded. Several federal states have submitted corresponding motions. According to media reports, a decision was planned for the end of September 2025, but as of October 20, 2025, no final decision has yet been reached.

8.2 Europe-wide developments

EU member states are in constant communication regarding new substances. Samples such as 3,4-ETMC are reported and analyzed through the EU Early Warning System . Austria and Switzerland have already banned 1S-LSD; Austria could also prohibit 3,4-ETMC by ministerial decree. In Sweden, fluorinated phenmetrazines such as 3-FPO have been illegal since 2015. The legal situation can therefore change rapidly; consumers should regularly check the current legislation.

8.3 Smartshops under discussion

Smartshops argue that they merely meet the demand for research substances and offer an alternative to the dangerous black market. Critics complain that such shops trivialize psychoactive substances and make them accessible to a wider population. Politicians are now calling for advertising bans on research chemical products and harsher penalties for dealers who knowingly promote their use.

9. Sociocultural context and consumer perspective

9.1 Age group 21–45 years

The target audience of this blog comprises adult consumers between 21 and 45 years old. They are usually in the middle of their careers, studying, or have families. At this stage of life, the need to escape the stresses of everyday life is high. Many people in this age group have experience with cannabis or party drugs and are looking for new experiences. At the same time, they bear responsibilities – both professionally and personally. Safety , legal compliance , and health awareness are becoming increasingly important. It is crucial to weigh the risks of recreational drug use and not to experiment without being informed.

9.2 Stoner culture and legal highs

Germany gradually legalized cannabis in 2024. For many consumers, cannabis is an alternative to harder drugs. Some smart shops specifically target cannabis users – for example, through product names like "HHC Cookies" or marketing campaigns using hemp symbolism. This creates the impression that legal highs are just a new form of "weed." However, this obscures the significant differences: HHC (a semi-synthetic cannabinoid) is considerably stronger and longer-lasting than delta-9-THC and was also subject to the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) in June 2024. Recreational cannabinoids and psychedelics should not be compared to cannabis.

9.3 Internet forums and user reviews

Many consumers seek information about dosage, effects, and sources in online forums. It is important to distinguish between reliable and subjectively biased information. Anecdotal evidence can provide clues, but it does not replace scientific data. Furthermore, every body is different – ​​what is "pleasant" for one person might trigger a panic attack in another.

10. Practical guide: What to do if you are offered legal highs on Halloween?

1. Decline without fear – You don't have to participate to belong. Politely point out the risks and that you would like to enjoy your evening without psychoactive substances.

2. Get informed – If you're curious, do thorough research (see Safer Use Tips). Get information from neutral sources like drugscouts.de , mindzone.info , or the BZgA (Federal Centre for Health Education).

3. No spontaneity – Don't make decisions on the spur of the moment. Psychoactive substances should never be consumed spontaneously and without a plan.

4. Look out for your friends – If you notice that someone has consumed RCs, offer water, provide a quiet corner, stay with the person and call for medical help if in doubt.

5. Report suspicious sales – If you observe unknown powders or pills being distributed in clubs or bars, inform the staff. It's about the safety of all guests.

13. Halloween, subculture and the use of drugs – a historical overview

To understand the current fascination with legal highs at Halloween, it's worth taking a look at history. Halloween originated in Celtic customs, especially the Samhain festival , which the Celts celebrated as a transition between summer and winter. On this day, the boundaries to the spirit world were believed to be permeable. In modern times, this evolved into a folk festival, which was first commercialized in North America and then reimported to Europe. Since the 1990s, Halloween parties have also been held in Germany. With the rave culture of the 90s and 2000s, an open drug scene entered the clubs. Ecstasy, amphetamines, and LSD were present at many parties and were consumed in conjunction with techno music. This trend also reached Halloween events.

The 2000s brought a new dynamic: Internet forums and shops enabled the worldwide sale of legal highs. In the US, herbal mixtures ("Spice") and synthetic cannabinoids spread first, followed later by synthetic cathinones ("Bath Salts"). Authorities reacted with lists of individual banned substances, but with each regulation, a new molecule was synthesized. Halloween culture, with its decadent parties, provided the ideal breeding ground for experimenting with new substances. Today, Halloween celebrations often feature fluorescent drinks, edibles, fog machines, and laser lights—a scene in which some guests struggle to distinguish between decoration and drug effects. The blending of pop culture, horror aesthetics, and chemistry is no coincidence: For years, illustrations of "gummy bears containing LSD," "cotton candy with HHC," or "candy that's actually 3-FPO pellets" have been circulating. These motifs appear harmless, but they downplay the real risks.

Legal developments also played a role. After the EU banned several synthetic cannabinoids in the early 2010s, manufacturers increasingly turned to cathinones. Between 2014 and 2016, the "bath salt" panic swept into Germany: media reports of zombies and cannibalism, which later turned out to be greatly exaggerated. Nevertheless, these headlines left behind a diffuse feeling of danger and fascination that lingers to this day. In online forums, Halloween is promoted as "the perfect time for the ultimate – the transition to the afterlife"; all the more reason to debunk myths and promote responsible choices through education.

14. Comparison of RCs vs. classic drugs – differences and similarities

A thorough comparison between legal highs and established illegal drugs helps to better understand their effects and risks. Here, we examine, as examples, 3-FPO vs. amphetamine, 3,4-ETMC vs. MDMA/mephedrone, and 1S-LSD vs. LSD. This comparison does not replace medical advice, but it demonstrates that the differences are sometimes marginal, sometimes significant.

14.1 3-FPO vs. Amphetamine

Amphetamine (colloquially known as "speed") is a potent central nervous system stimulant that has been in circulation for decades. Both substances primarily work by releasing dopamine and norepinephrine. Differences:

• Duration: Amphetamine lasts longer (4–8 hours) than 3-FPO (2–4 hours). The shorter duration of 3-FPO encourages redosing, ultimately resulting in a similar overall duration.
• Euphoria: 3-FPO is often described as a "clear" stimulant – less jittery than speed. Amphetamine can cause restlessness, jaw clenching, and a strong urge to move.
• Legal situation: Amphetamine has long been classified as illegal under the German Narcotics Act (BtMG); 3-FPO was legal for several years, but is now also prohibited.
• Potential for addiction: Both have a high risk of abuse; beta-fluorination in 3-FPO does not reduce the inhibition threshold.

14.2 3,4‑ETMC vs. MDMA/Mephedrone

MDMA, known as "Ecstasy," is both stimulating and highly empathogenic. It causes a massive release of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. 3,4-ETMC shows a similar profile, but with a weaker serotonergic component—therefore, it lacks the deep emotional connection that characterizes MDMA. Mephedrone (4-MMC) lies between the two: more empathogenic than 3,4-ETMC, but more jittery than MDMA. Differences:

• Depth of effect: MDMA often induces strong empathy, love and connection, while 3,4-ETMC tends to make one more alert, talkative and mildly euphoric.
• Crash: The crash with 3,4-ETMC occurs faster and more severely (1–2 hours after the effects wear off). Mephedrone also has a strong comedown. MDMA users often report a “Suicide Tuesday” (depressed mood) only the following day.
• Neurotoxicity: MDMA is well-researched; with proper dosage and sufficient rest periods, long-term neurotoxicity is discussed but not definitively proven. 3,4-ETMC and mephedrone are significantly less well-researched, making the long-term risks unclear.
• Legality: MDMA is illegal, as is mephedrone. 3,4-ETMC is (still) legal, but could soon be banned.

14.3 1S-LSD vs. LSD

LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is one of the best-known psychedelics. It is highly potent (effective from 20 µg), produces long-lasting trips (8–12 hours), and can induce intense mystical experiences. 1S-LSD differs chemically by the trimethylsilyl group, but functions as a prodrug and is metabolized to LSD in the body. Differences:

• Onset: 1S-LSD sometimes takes effect somewhat slower (up to 90 minutes) than LSD (30–60 minutes). However, the trip may have a different after-effect; precise data is lacking.
• Potency: Blotters containing 150 µg of 1S-LSD are circulating in the scene – this corresponds to approximately a "strong" dose of LSD. Some users report that 1S-LSD is milder, while others see no difference.
• Legal situation: LSD is illegal, 1S-LSD is (still) legal, but a ban is imminent. The silicon modification was a loophole that will be closed.

In conclusion, the differences between research chemicals (RCs) and their "original" counterparts lie less in their effects than in their legal classification and the available data. Unknown substances introduce additional uncertainties. Anyone seeking "legal MDMA" risks taking a less researched substance with a potentially stronger crash and unknown toxicity.

15. Psychology of Risk at Halloween

Why do so many people experiment with new substances around Halloween? Psychological models offer possible explanations:

1. Social norms and peer pressure: Costume parties create a temporary parallel world where otherwise applicable rules seem to be suspended. Those who dress up feel less bound by their everyday roles. In groups, the pressure to "join in" increases when legal highs are offered.
2. Sensation seeking: People with a high need for new and intense experiences are more likely to turn to psychoactive substances. Halloween already offers a thrill through horror movies, roller coasters, and spooky decorations; legal highs could serve as an additional incentive.
3. Misinformation: The myth "legal = safe" makes it easier to decide to try an unknown powder. Within the group, risks are downplayed and warnings are ignored.
4. Mood management: After stressful work weeks, some partygoers see RC stimulants as a way to recharge and party without inhibition. Others hope for a "spiritual" experience with 1S-LSD that fits the Halloween theme.
5. Availability and marketing: Smart shops produce Halloween special offers, discounts, and pop-up stores. The low barrier to entry increases the likelihood of an impulse purchase.

Psychological research shows that such decisions are rarely made rationally. Prevention campaigns should therefore not only provide information, but also address group processes and offer alternative experiences (e.g., alcohol-free cocktails, immersive theater without drugs).