@article{ref1,
title="Being in control? A thematic content analysis of 14 in-depth interviews with 2,4-dinitrophenol users",
journal="International journal on drug policy",
year="2018",
author="Ainsworth, Neha Prasad and Vargo, Elisabeth Julie and Petroczi, Andrea",
volume="52",
number="",
pages="106-114",
abstract="BACKGROUND: 2,4-Dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP) is a compound with multiple industrial purposes. Currently unlicensed for human consumption, it is used by the gym-going population for drastic, short-term body fat loss. Nonetheless, physiological mechanisms can lead to potentially fatal hyperthermia. Reported fatal incidents have caused concern and highlighted the need for intervention. Understanding decision-making leading to 2,4-DNP use alongside the perceived outgroup attitudes is vital to forming effective harm minimisation policies targeting current and potential users. First-hand accounts from this elusive population are scarce. <br><br>METHODS: Fourteen novel and experienced users (13 male, 1 female) were recruited via &quot;snowballing&quot; techniques. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, comprising 28 questions. Thematic content analysis was conducted using 37 codes. <br><br>RESULTS: Four characteristic themes emerged: 1. Users considered the Internet to be a crucial multifunctional resource directly impacting their 2,4-DNP use. 2. Users &quot;respected&quot; 2,4-DNP, proactively taking harm reduction measures. 3. Attitudinal polarisation towards 2,4-DNP within the gym-going community was consistent in all accounts. 4. Users perceived outgroup populations to have inherently negative attitudes towards their use. These themes fell under the all-encompassing theme of &quot;being in control&quot;. <br><br>CONCLUSION: For the first time, this study offers a rich detail of attitudes toward 2,4-DNP use by giving a collective voice to users. The element of control over every aspect of the users' life appears to be a significant contributor to the successful risk-management of 2,4-DNP use. In the absence of an established safe upper limit and effective regulatory control, education is critical to harm minimisation.<br><br>Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0955-3959",
doi="10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.12.012",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.12.012"
}