Police in Vancouver are warning the public about a new designer drug with hallucinogenic properties that is causing teens to put themselves in unsafe sexual situations.

Foxy methoxy, police say, is part of a family of tryptamines that come in a powder form, or in small, colourful pills that feature graphics like spiderwebs and alien heads.

Tryptamines are regulated in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, but not in Canada.

RCMP Const. Scott Rintoul said that's because the drug has not been widely used in this country, but it is no less dangerous than a drug like ecstasy, which is more common in Canada.

"It's a totally illicit, clandestine drug. You can't go and buy it at a pharmacy. It's something that's made in underground labs but then is sold on the street as a party drug."

Rintoul said the desired effect of the drug is a feeling of euphoria and excitement.

Less desirable side-effects include agitation and sleep disorders.

But Rintoul said the RCMP's single biggest worry is that the drug leads to unsafe sexual activity.

"And I'm not stretching this, I would also say that some individuals who are using these drugs are knowingly putting themselves in very vulnerable situations where they actually are being sexually assaulted."

Foxy methoxy has become popular in the British club scene. Other risks associated with the drug include bad trips, dizziness and disorientation.