Chief, Designer Drug Research Unit
IRP/NIDA/ NIH
Michael H. Baumann, Ph.D. is a Staff Scientist and Chief of the Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), at the Intramural Research Program (IRP) of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) in Baltimore, Maryland. The DDRU collects, analyzes, and disseminates the most up-to-date information about the biological effects of newly-emerging synthetic drugs of abuse (i.e., designer drugs), also known as new psychoactive substances (NPS). Working with partner organizations, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration and European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Dr. Baumann is kept informed about recent trends in the misuse of NPS. The DDRU has characterized the molecular mechanism of action and pharmacological effects for a diversity of NPS, including “bath salts” (synthetic stimulants), “spice” (synthetic cannabinoids) and synthetic opioids. Findings from the DDRU inform law enforcement personnel, health care workers, clinical toxicologists, forensic scientists, basic researchers, and policymakers who are involved in responding to the global spread of NPS and the associated public health risks.
Disclosure information not submitted.
Friday, July 22, 2022
2:15 PM – 3:00 PM CT
Friday, July 22, 2022
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM CT
