What are drugs that result from altered chemical structures of existing illicit drugs called?

Drugs that result from altered chemical structures of existing illicit drugs are referred to as structural analogs. This term specifically describes substances that are chemically modified versions of already existing compounds, retaining some similar properties but often exhibiting different effects, potency, or safety profiles.

The concept of structural analogs is significant in the field of substance abuse because it highlights how easily substances can be modified to evade legal restrictions or testing protocols. This practice, often seen with various illicit drugs, leads to the emergence of new substances that can pose unique risks to users and complicate regulatory efforts.

While the other terms may describe various aspects related to drugs, they don't specifically capture the essence of chemically altered versions of existing illicit drugs as accurately as structural analogs do. For instance, synthetic drugs refer to substances created entirely through chemical processes, which may or may not be altered analogs of existing drugs. Designer drugs, on the other hand, typically refer to substances that are synthesized to mimic the pharmacological effects of established drugs but are often crafted for very specific purposes, including evasion of drug laws. Precursor drugs refer to substances that serve as starting materials in the synthesis of other drugs, rather than being products with altered structures. Thus, structural analogs aptly describes drugs that have