1
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Vandeputte MM, Stove CP. In vitro μ-opioid receptor activation potential of U10 and β-U10, positional isomers of the synthetic opioid naphthyl U-47700. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:323-326. [PMID: 37482925 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
New synthetic opioids (NSOs) with diverse chemical structures continue to appear on recreational drug markets worldwide. U-type opioids have become one of the largest groups of non-fentanyl-related NSOs. Starting in 2020, a previously unreported U-compound coined "β-U10" (2-naphthyl U-47700; N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylnaphthalene-2-carboxamide) was identified in Australia and the United States. β-U10 is a positional isomer of α-U10 (1-naphthyl U-47700), more commonly known as "U10." Here, the first comparative in vitro pharmacological characterization of naphthyl U-47700 (U10 and β-U10), together with the structural analogue U-47700 and fentanyl, is reported. Application of a cell-based μ-opioid receptor (MOR) activation (β-arrestin 2 recruitment) assay demonstrated β-U10 (EC50 = 348 nM; Emax = 150% vs. hydromorphone) to be less potent than U-47700 (EC50 = 116 nM; Emax = 154%) and fentanyl (EC50 = 9.35 nM; Emax = 146%) but considerably more active than the α-isomer (EC50 value in the μM range). For the latter, maximum receptor activation could not be reached at 100 μM. The difference in MOR activation potential for U10 and β-U10 stresses the importance of (analytical) differentiation between closely related analytes. The emergence of β-U10 on the recreational drug market is an example of the continuing emergence of non-fentanyl-related NSOs and further emphasizes the need to closely monitor fluctuations in the drug supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthe M Vandeputte
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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2
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Collins M, Brown D, Davies S, Chan B, Trotter B, Moawad M, Blakey K, Collins-Brown L. Case study: Identification and characterization of N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylnaphthalene-2-carboxamide, a regioisomer of the synthetic opioid U10. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:188-195. [PMID: 34390197 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Collins
- Australian Forensic Drug Laboratory, National Measurement Institute, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Brown
- Forensic Science Laboratory, ChemCentre, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen Davies
- Australian Forensic Drug Laboratory, National Measurement Institute, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Benjamin Chan
- Australian Forensic Drug Laboratory, National Measurement Institute, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brendan Trotter
- Australian Forensic Drug Laboratory, National Measurement Institute, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Moawad
- Australian Forensic Drug Laboratory, National Measurement Institute, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karen Blakey
- Illicit Drug Group, Forensic Chemistry, Queensland Health Forensic Science Service, Coopers Plains, Queensland, Australia
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3
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Mégarbane B, Gamblin C, Roussel O, Bouaziz-Amar E, Chevillard L, Callebert J, Chen H, Morineau G, Laplanche JL, Etheve-Quelquejeu M, Liechti ME, Benturquia N. The neurobehavioral effects of the designer drug naphyrone - an experimental investigation with pharmacokinetics and concentration/effect relationship in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1943-1957. [PMID: 32399634 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05510-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The recreational use of naphyrone, a potent synthetic cathinone with a pyrovalerone structure, has raised questions about possible deleterious neurobehavioral consequences. OBJECTIVE To investigate naphyrone-induced neurobehavioral effects and alterations in brain monoamines using two patterns of abuse, i.e., single and repeated (binge) use. METHODS We studied naphyrone dose/induced locomotor activity relationship at 3, 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg in mice. We investigated the effects of single (30 mg/kg; acute injection) versus repeated (30 mg/kg ×3/day for 3 days; binge injection) intraperitoneal naphyrone administration on locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior, spatial recognition memory, anhedonia, behavioral despair, and social interaction. We measured post-mortem prefrontal cortex levels of monoamines and modeled naphyrone pharmacokinetics and concentration/locomotor effect relationship. RESULTS Both naphyrone administration patterns induced time-dependent increases in locomotor activity (p < 0.001 and p < 0.0001, respectively) and social interaction (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively) but did not alter spatial recognition memory or anhedonia. Acute naphyrone injection induced anxiety-like behavior (p < 0.01) and reduced resignation (p < 0.01) whereas binge administration induced non-anxiety-like behavior (p < 0.05) and did not alter behavioral despair. Both patterns increased the prefrontal cortex dopamine (p < 0.0001) and norepinephrine (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) but not serotonin content. Naphyrone pharmacokinetics followed a two-compartment model with an overall elimination half-life of 0.3 h. The naphyrone concentration/locomotor effect relationship was described by an additive Emax model with an EC50 of 672 μg/L. CONCLUSIONS Single naphyrone administration increases locomotor activity according to a direct concentration/effect relationship. The neurobehavioral effects after binge differs from those after single administration and are not explained by drug accumulation given the relatively fast elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Mégarbane
- Inserm, UMR-S 1144, Paris University, Paris, France.,Department of Medical and Toxicological Critical Care, Lariboisière Hospital, Paris, France
| | | | - Olivier Roussel
- Inserm, UMR-S 1144, Paris University, Paris, France.,Toxicology Department, Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Rosny sous-Bois, France
| | | | | | | | - Huixiong Chen
- CNRS, UMR8601, Laboratory of Chemistry and Pharmacological and Toxicological Biochemistry, CBNIT, Paris-Descartes University, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Mélanie Etheve-Quelquejeu
- CNRS, UMR8601, Laboratory of Chemistry and Pharmacological and Toxicological Biochemistry, CBNIT, Paris-Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nadia Benturquia
- Inserm, UMR-S 1144, Paris University, Paris, France. .,Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Paris University, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006, Paris, France.
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4
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Carlsson A, Sandgren V, Svensson S, Konradsson P, Dunne S, Josefsson M, Dahlén J. Prediction of designer drugs: Synthesis and spectroscopic analysis of synthetic cathinone analogs that may appear on the Swedish drug market. Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:1076-1098. [PMID: 29426062 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The use of hyphenated analytical techniques in forensic drug screening enables simultaneous identification of a wide range of different compounds. However, the appearance of drug seizures containing new substances, mainly new psychoactive substances (NPS), is steadily increasing. These new and other already known substances often possess structural similarities and consequently they exhibit spectral data with slight differences. This situation has made the criteria that ensure indubitable identification of compounds increasingly important. In this work, 6 new synthetic cathinones that have not yet appeared in any Swedish drug seizures were synthesized. Their chemical structures were similar to those of already known cathinone analogs of which 42 were also included in the study. Hence, a total of 48 synthetic cathinones making up sets of homologous and regioisomeric compounds were used to challenge the capabilities of various analytical techniques commonly applied in forensic drug screening, ie, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), gas chromatography-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (GC-FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Special attention was paid to the capabilities of GC-MS and GC-FTIR to distinguish between the synthetic cathinones and the results showed that neither GC-MS nor GC-FTIR alone can successfully differentiate between all synthetic cathinones. However, the 2 techniques proved to be complementary and their combined use is therefore beneficial. For example, the structural homologs were better differentiated by GC-MS, while GC-FTIR performed better for the regioisomers. Further, new spectroscopic data of the synthesized cathinone analogs is hereby presented for the forensic community. The synthetic work also showed that cathinone reference compounds can be produced in few reaction steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Carlsson
- Swedish National Forensic Centre - NFC, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Veronica Sandgren
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Stefan Svensson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Peter Konradsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Simon Dunne
- Swedish National Forensic Centre - NFC, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Martin Josefsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Dahlén
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
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5
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Qian Z, Jia W, Li T, Liu C, Hua Z. Identification and analytical characterization of four synthetic cathinone derivatives iso-4-BMC, β-TH-naphyrone, mexedrone, and 4-MDMC. Drug Test Anal 2016; 9:274-281. [PMID: 27352812 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) have gained much popularity on the global market over the last number of years. The synthetic cathinone family is one of the most prominent groups and this paper reports on the analytical properties of four synthetic cathinone derivatives: (1) 1-(4-bromophenyl)-1-(methylamino)propan-2-one (iso-4-BMC or iso-brephedrone), (2) 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)-1-(5,6,7,8-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-yl)pentan-1-one (β-TH-naphyrone), (3) 3-methoxy-2-(methylamino)-1-(4-methylphenyl)propan-1-one (mexedrone), and (4) 2-(dimethylamino)-1-(4-methylphenyl)propan-1-one (4-MDMC). These identifications were based on liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. To our knowledge, no chemical or pharmacological data about compounds 1-3 have appeared until now, making this the first report on these compounds. The Raman and GC-MS data of 4 have been reported, but this study added the LC-MS and NMR data for additional characterization. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Qian
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Jia
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Li
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Cuimei Liu
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Zhendong Hua
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
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6
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Collins M, Doddridge A, Salouros H. Cathinones: Isotopic profiling as an aid to linking seizures. Drug Test Anal 2015; 8:903-9. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Collins
- National Measurement Institute; Riverside Corporate Park; North Ryde Sydney Australia
| | - Alexandra Doddridge
- Centre for Forensic Science; University of Technology; Sydney Broadway NSW Australia
| | - Helen Salouros
- National Measurement Institute; Riverside Corporate Park; North Ryde Sydney Australia
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7
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Power JD, Kavanagh P, McLaughlin G, O'Brien J, Talbot B, Barry M, Twamley B, Dowling G, Brandt SD. Identification and characterization of an imidazolium by-product formed during the synthesis of 4-methylmethcathinone (mephedrone). Drug Test Anal 2015; 7:894-902. [PMID: 25847393 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
4-Methylmethcathinone (2-methylamino-1-(4-methylphenyl)propan-1-one, mephedrone) is a psychoactive substance that has been associated with recreational use worldwide. Analytical data related to mephedrone are abundantly available but the characterization of by-products obtained during organic synthesis remains to be explored. This study presents the identification of a 1,2,3,5-tetramethyl-4-(4-methylphenyl)-1H-imidazol-3-ium salt (TMMPI), which was formed during the synthesis of mephedrone. When diethyl ether was added to the crude reaction product, solid material precipitated from the solution. Analytical characterization of TMMPI employed a range of analytical techniques including chromatographic analysis in combination with various mass spectrometric detection methods, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and crystal structure analysis. Additional confirmation was obtained from organic synthesis of the imidazolium by-product. When TMMPI was subjected to analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), isomerization and degradation into two distinct compounds were observed, which pointed towards thermal instability under GC conditions. A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based investigation into a micro-scale synthesis of mephedrone and three additional analogues revealed that the corresponding TMMPI analogue was formed. Interestingly, storage of mephedrone freebase in a number of organic solvents also gave rise to TMMPI and it appeared that its formation during storage was significantly reduced in the absence of air. The present study aimed to support clandestine forensic investigations by employing analytical strategies that are applicable to manufacturing sites. The imidazolium salts will most likely be found amongst the waste products of any clandestine lab site under investigation rather than with the desired product.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Power
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland.,Forensic Science Ireland, Garda HQ, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Pierce Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Gavin McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - John O'Brien
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Brian Talbot
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Michael Barry
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | | | - Geraldine Dowling
- State Laboratory, Backweston Campus, Stacummy Lane, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
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8
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Paillet-Loilier M, Cesbron A, Le Boisselier R, Bourgine J, Debruyne D. Emerging drugs of abuse: current perspectives on substituted cathinones. Subst Abuse Rehabil 2014; 5:37-52. [PMID: 24966713 PMCID: PMC4043811 DOI: 10.2147/sar.s37257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Substituted cathinones are synthetic analogs of cathinone that can be considered as derivatives of phenethylamines with a beta-keto group on the side chain. They appeared in the recreational drug market in the mid-2000s and now represent a large class of new popular drugs of abuse. Initially considered as legal highs, their legal status is variable by country and is rapidly changing, with government institutions encouraging their control. Some cathinones (such as diethylpropion or pyrovalerone) have been used in a medical setting and bupropion is actually indicated for smoking cessation. Substituted cathinones are widely available from internet websites, retail shops, and street dealers. They can be sold under chemical, evocative or generic names, making their identification difficult. Fortunately, analytical methods have been developed in recent years to solve this problem. Available as powders, substituted cathinones are self-administered by snorting, oral injestion, or intravenous injection. They act as central nervous system stimulants by causing the release of catecholamines (dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin) and blocking their reuptake in the central and peripheral nervous system. They may also decrease dopamine and serotonin transporter function as nonselective substrates or potent blockers and may inhibit monoamine oxidase effects. Nevertheless, considerable differences have been found in the potencies of the different substituted cathinones in vitro. Desired effects reported by users include increased energy, empathy, and improved libido. Cardiovascular (tachycardia, hypertension) and psychiatric/neurological signs/symptoms (agitation, seizures, paranoia, and hallucinations) are the most common adverse effects reported. Severe toxicity signs compatible with excessive serotonin activity, such as hyperthermia, metabolic acidosis, and prolonged rhabdomyolysis, have also been observed. Reinforcing potential observed in animals predicts a high potential for addiction and abuse in users. In case of overdose, no specific antidote exists and no curative treatment has been approved by health authorities. Therefore, management of acute toxic effects is mainly extrapolated from experience with cocaine/amphetamines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandre Cesbron
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, University Hospital Centre, Caen, France
| | - Reynald Le Boisselier
- Centre d'Evaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance - Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), Department of Pharmacology, University Hospital Centre, Caen, France
| | - Joanna Bourgine
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, University Hospital Centre, Caen, France
| | - Danièle Debruyne
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, University Hospital Centre, Caen, France ; Centre d'Evaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance - Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), Department of Pharmacology, University Hospital Centre, Caen, France
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9
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The analytical investigation of synthetic street drugs containing cathinone analogs. Forensic Sci Int 2014; 234:50-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2013] [Revised: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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10
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Valente MJ, Guedes de Pinho P, de Lourdes Bastos M, Carvalho F, Carvalho M. Khat and synthetic cathinones: a review. Arch Toxicol 2013; 88:15-45. [PMID: 24317389 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-013-1163-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
For centuries, 'khat sessions' have played a key role in the social and cultural traditions among several communities around Saudi Arabia and most East African countries. The identification of cathinone as the main psychoactive compound of khat leaves, exhibiting amphetamine-like pharmacological properties, resulted in the synthesis of several derivatives structurally similar to this so-called natural amphetamine. Synthetic cathinones were primarily developed for therapeutic purposes, but promptly started being misused and extensively abused for their euphoric effects. In the mid-2000's, synthetic cathinones emerged in the recreational drug markets as legal alternatives ('legal highs') to amphetamine, 'ecstasy', or cocaine. Currently, they are sold as 'bath salts' or 'plant food', under ambiguous labels lacking information about their true contents. Cathinone derivatives are conveniently available online or at 'smartshops' and are much more affordable than the traditional illicit drugs. Despite the scarcity of scientific data on these 'legal highs', synthetic cathinones use became an increasingly popular practice worldwide. Additionally, criminalization of these derivatives is often useless since for each specific substance that gets legally controlled, one or more structurally modified analogs are introduced into the legal market. Chemically, these substances are structurally related to amphetamine. For this reason, cathinone derivatives share with this drug both central nervous system stimulating and sympathomimetic features. Reports of intoxication and deaths related to the use of 'bath salts' have been frequently described over the last years, and several attempts to apply a legislative control on synthetic cathinones have been made. However, further research on their pharmacological and toxicological properties is fully required in order to access the actual potential harm of synthetic cathinones to general public health. The present work provides a review on khat and synthetic cathinones, concerning their historical background, prevalence, patterns of use, legal status, chemistry, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and their physiological and toxicological effects on animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Valente
- REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal,
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11
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Thermal degradation of α-pyrrolidinopentiophenone during injection in gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 231:296-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2013] [Revised: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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12
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Kanu AB, Brandt SD, Williams MD, Zhang N, Hill HH. Analysis of Psychoactive Cathinones and Tryptamines by Electrospray Ionization Atmospheric Pressure Ion Mobility Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2013; 85:8535-42. [DOI: 10.1021/ac401951a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Bakarr Kanu
- Department of Chemistry, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North
Carolina 27110, United States
| | - Simon D. Brandt
- School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, U.K
| | - Mike D. Williams
- Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-4630,
United States
| | - Nancy Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-4630,
United States
| | - Herbert H. Hill
- Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-4630,
United States
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13
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Scott KR, Power JD, McDermott SD, O'Brien JE, Talbot BN, Barry MG, Kavanagh PV. Identification of (2-aminopropyl)indole positional isomers in forensic samples. Drug Test Anal 2013; 6:598-606. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2013] [Revised: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth R. Scott
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences; St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - John D. Power
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences; St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
- Forensic Science Laboratory; Garda HQ; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | | | | | - Brian N. Talbot
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Trinity College Dublin 2; Ireland
| | - Michael G. Barry
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences; St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - Pierce V. Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences; St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
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14
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Jebadurai J, Schifano F, Deluca P. Recreational use of 1-(2-naphthyl)-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-1-pentanone hydrochloride (NRG-1), 6-(2-aminopropyl) benzofuran (benzofury/ 6-APB) and NRG-2 with review of available evidence-based literature. Hum Psychopharmacol 2013; 28:356-64. [PMID: 23881884 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to review the available evidence-based literature on novel psychoactive substances and to inform health care professionals. METHODS Internet searches were carried out using Google and Yahoo by using specific key words. For each set of key words, the first 100 websites identified by Google and Yahoo were fully assessed, together with a further 5% of random samples selected by research randomizer of the remaining websites. Thus, a list of unique web forums was identified, and qualitative information was extracted. Available evidence-based literature were reviewed along with a user's experimentation with mephedrone, NRG-1, NRG-2 and Benzofury. RESULTS It showed that when a substance (mephedrone) became controlled, the vendors aggressively promote the sale of other new compounds (NRG-1, NRG-2, Benzofury) to attract vulnerable adults. The characteristics, toxicity and suggested management of these new compounds (NRG-1, NRG-2, Benzofury) are discussed. CONCLUSIONS The arrival of hundreds of novel psychoactive substances for sale online has raised a number of public health and legal issues. Although evidence-based literature remains limited, few studies identified that most products do not contain the ingredients as advertised. Better levels of international cooperation and rapid share of available information may be needed to tackle this emerging problem.
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15
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Corkery JM, Elliott S, Schifano F, Corazza O, Ghodse AH. MDAI (5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane; 6,7-dihydro-5H-cyclopenta[f][1,3]benzodioxol-6-amine; 'sparkle'; 'mindy') toxicity: a brief overview and update. Hum Psychopharmacol 2013; 28:345-55. [PMID: 23881883 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES MDAI (5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane; 6,7-dihydro-5H-cyclopenta[f][1,3]benzodioxol-6-amine; 'sparkle'; 'mindy') is a psychoactive substance, sold primarily over the Internet and in 'head' shops as a 'legal high'. Synthesised and used as a research chemical in the 1990s, MDAI has structural similarities to MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine) and shares its behavioural properties. Recreational use of MDAI appears to have started in Europe around 2007, with a noticeable increase after 2009 in the UK and other countries. Calls to National Poisons Information Services started in 2010, although there were few presentations to emergency departments by patients complaining of undesirable physical and psychiatric effects after taking MDAI. Recreational use of this drug has been reported only occasionally by online user fora. There is little scientifically based literature on the pharmacological, physiological, psychopharmacological, toxicological and epidemiological characteristics of this drug. METHODS Recent literature (including 'grey') was searched to update what is known about MDAI, especially on its toxicity. RESULTS The resultant information is presented, including on the first three UK deaths involving MDAI use in 2011 and 2012. 'Serotonin syndrome' appears to be a possible factor in these fatalities. CONCLUSION It is vital that any other cases, including non-fatal overdoses, are documented so that a scientific evidence base can be established for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Corkery
- National Programme for Substance Abuse Deaths (np-SAD), International Centre for Drug Policy, St George's, University of London, London, UK.
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Meyer MR, Prosser D, Maurer HH. Studies on the metabolism and detectability of the designer drug β-naphyrone in rat urine using GC-MS and LC-HR-MS/MS. Drug Test Anal 2013; 5:259-65. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 11/06/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Markus R. Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology; Saarland University; D-66421; Homburg; Saar; Germany
| | - Denise Prosser
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology; Saarland University; D-66421; Homburg; Saar; Germany
| | - Hans H. Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology; Saarland University; D-66421; Homburg; Saar; Germany
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17
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Elie MP, Elie LE, Baron MG. Keeping pace with NPS releases: fast GC-MS screening of legal high products. Drug Test Anal 2013; 5:281-90. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Revised: 10/05/2012] [Accepted: 10/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu P. Elie
- School of Life Sciences; University of Lincoln; Brayford Pool; Lincoln; LN6 7TS; UK
| | - Leonie E. Elie
- School of Life Sciences; University of Lincoln; Brayford Pool; Lincoln; LN6 7TS; UK
| | - Mark G. Baron
- School of Life Sciences; University of Lincoln; Brayford Pool; Lincoln; LN6 7TS; UK
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18
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Tsujikawa K, Mikuma T, Kuwayama K, Miyaguchi H, Kanamori T, Iwata YT, Inoue H. Identification and differentiation of methcathinone analogs by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2012; 5:670-7. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2012] [Revised: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Tsujikawa
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Toshiyasu Mikuma
- Forensic Science Laboratory; Chiba Prefectural Police HQ; 1-71-1, Chuo-minato, Chuo-ku; Chiba; Chiba; 260-0024; Japan
| | - Kenji Kuwayama
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Hajime Miyaguchi
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Tatsuyuki Kanamori
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Yuko T. Iwata
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Inoue
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
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19
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Brandt SD, Daley PF, Cozzi NV. Analytical characterization of three trifluoromethyl-substituted methcathinone isomers. Drug Test Anal 2012; 4:525-9. [PMID: 22362591 DOI: 10.1002/dta.382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2011] [Revised: 10/04/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Cathinone derivatives display a wide range of pharmacological activities and uses; some of them are used as prescription medicines, while others are encountered within a recreational context and are available without a prescription over the Internet and in retail shops around the world. One of the difficulties involved in the unambiguous identification of these new psychoactive substances is the lack of suitable reference standards, particularly when dealing with unreported derivatives and positional isomers. In order to address this need, three trifluoromethyl analogues of the psychostimulant methcathinone, with a CF(3) substituent at the 2-, 3- and 4-position of the phenyl ring (2-TFMAP 1, 3-TFMAP 2 and 4-TFMAP 3), have been prepared for analytical characterization using ATR-FTIR, (1)H and (13) C NMR, and GC-(EI/CI)-ion trap-MS. Differentiation among isomers was feasible by IR, for example when assessing the carbonyl stretch at 1711 (1), 1693 (2) and 1688 (3) cm(-1) , respectively. In addition to the expected iminium base peak at m/z 58, EI-MS displayed key ions at m/z 173, 145, 125, 95, and 75. Separation of isomers was possible under GC conditions. A characteristic feature under CI conditions was the loss of water from the [M + H](+) yielding m/z 214 in addition to m/z 58. Studies currently underway show that the three CF(3) -methcathinone analogues have central nervous system effects and that the 4-CF(3) isomer 3 is more potent as a serotonin uptake inhibitor and releasing agent than the 3-CF(3) and 2-CF(3) counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
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20
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Thevis M, Kuuranne T, Geyer H, Schänzer W. Annual banned-substance review: analytical approaches in human sports drug testing. Drug Test Anal 2012; 4:2-16. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiia Kuuranne
- Doping Control Laboratory; United Medix Laboratories; Helsinki; Finland
| | - Hans Geyer
- Center for Preventive Doping Research - Institute of Biochemistry; German Sport University Cologne; Germany
| | - Wilhelm Schänzer
- Center for Preventive Doping Research - Institute of Biochemistry; German Sport University Cologne; Germany
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21
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Vardakou I, Pistos C, Dona A, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S. Naphyrone: a “legal high” not legal any more. Drug Chem Toxicol 2011; 35:467-71. [DOI: 10.3109/01480545.2011.642381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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22
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Analytical characterization and rapid determination of 2-(diphenylmethyl)pyrrolidine in blood and application to an internet product. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2011; 879:3771-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2011.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2011] [Revised: 09/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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23
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Kavanagh P, Angelov D, O'Brien J, Fox J, O'Donnell C, Christie R, Power JD, McDermott SD. The syntheses and characterization 3β-(4-fluorobenzoyloxy)tropane (fluorotropacocaine) and its 3α isomer. Drug Test Anal 2011; 4:33-8. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2011] [Revised: 08/29/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pierce Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine; Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital; Dublin 8; Ireland
| | - Daniel Angelov
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine; Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital; Dublin 8; Ireland
| | - John O'Brien
- School of Chemistry; Trinity College; Dublin 2; Ireland
| | - John Fox
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin St; Dublin 8; Ireland
| | - Cora O'Donnell
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin St; Dublin 8; Ireland
| | - Rachel Christie
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin St; Dublin 8; Ireland
| | - John D. Power
- Forensic Science Laboratory; Garda HQ; Dublin 8; Ireland
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Reitzel LA, Dalsgaard PW, Müller IB, Cornett C. Identification of ten new designer drugs by GC-MS, UPLC-QTOF-MS, and NMR as part of a police investigation of a Danish internet company. Drug Test Anal 2011; 4:342-54. [PMID: 22102551 DOI: 10.1002/dta.358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Revised: 07/28/2011] [Accepted: 07/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The ability of forensic laboratories to detect and identify unknown compounds is highly important since new, non-controlled designer drugs are appearing on the market with increasing frequency. In this study, the combined use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight-mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) was used for screening of new unknowns. In one large seizure from a Danish Internet company, ten different drugs were identified. Several of the compounds were seized for the first time in Denmark. The GC-MS and UPLC-QTOF-MS analyses were supplemented by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra for the structural elucidation of p-fluoroamphetamine, mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone), flephedrone (4-fluoromethcathinone), PPP (α-pyrrolidinopropiophenone), MDPV (3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone), Bk-MBDB (2-methylamino-1-(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)butan-1-one), pFBT (3-(pfluorobenzoyl)-tropane), and JWH-073 (1-butyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indol), whereas methylone (3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone) and N-ethylcathinone matched electron impact-mass spectrometry (EI-MS) library spectra and therefore the screenings were considered sufficient. EI-MS spectra and the proposed main fragmentation patterns are presented as well as QTOF-MS exact masses and fragments and NMR chemical shifts. For the β-ketophenylethylamines (mephedrone, flephedrone, PPP, MDPV, Bk-MBDB, methylone, and N-ethylcathinone) some general fragmentation patterns observed in the EI-MS and QTOF-MS spectra are further discussed and compared to other β-ketophenylethylamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte A Reitzel
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Forensic Medicine, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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25
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Angelov D, O'Brien J, Kavanagh P. The syntheses of 1-(2-thienyl)-2-(methylamino) propane (methiopropamine) and its 3-thienyl isomer for use as reference standards. Drug Test Anal 2011; 5:145-9. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2011] [Revised: 04/25/2011] [Accepted: 04/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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26
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Kelly JP. Cathinone derivatives: A review of their chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. Drug Test Anal 2011; 3:439-53. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2010] [Revised: 05/19/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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27
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Social, policy, and public health perspectives on new psychoactive substances. Drug Test Anal 2011; 3:515-23. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 05/19/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Derungs A, Schietzel S, Meyer MR, Maurer HH, Krähenbühl S, Liechti ME. Sympathomimetic toxicity in a case of analytically confirmed recreational use of naphyrone (naphthylpyrovalerone). Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2011; 49:691-3. [PMID: 21740148 DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2011.592838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Naphyrone (naphthylpyrovalerone) is a cathinone derivative and recreational drug related to mephedrone. CASE We report a 31-year-old man who ingested a dose of naphyrone (100 mg), which produced acute sympathomimetic toxicity with restlessness, insomnia, anxiety, and hallucinations lasting for 2 days. Naphyrone was detected in the patient's plasma by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry at concentrations of 0.03 and 0.02 mg/L, 40 and 60 h after drug intake, respectively. DISCUSSION Based on the present case report and user web-reports, as well as on the chemical structure and pharmacological characteristics, naphyrone produces stimulant-like psychotropic effects and sympathomimetic toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Derungs
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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29
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Baron M, Elie M, Elie L. An analysis of legal highs-do they contain what it says on the tin? Drug Test Anal 2011; 3:576-81. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2011] [Revised: 02/02/2011] [Accepted: 02/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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New designer drug of abuse: 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV). Findings from apprehended drivers in Finland. Forensic Sci Int 2011; 210:195-200. [PMID: 21477955 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2011.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2010] [Revised: 03/10/2011] [Accepted: 03/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Starting in 2008 a new designer drug, 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) appeared among users of illegal drugs in Finland. Since then there have been several seizures of MDPV by police and customs and it has been connected to many crimes of different types. In this study the incidence and impact of the use of MDPV in drivers suspected of being under the influence of drugs (DUID) in Finland was assessed. Since autumn 2009, blood samples from drivers suspected of DUID in Finland have been analysed for the presence of MDPV. A new LC-MS/MS method for the determination of MDPV in serum was established. In order to assess the impact of MDPV on driving performance, drug and alcohol findings of positive MDPV cases were compared with data from the clinical examination carried out while the suspect was under arrest. In a period of one year there were 259 positive MDPV cases from apprehended drivers (5.7% of all confirmed DUID cases). In 80% of the cases in which MDPV was found, amphetamine was also present. Benzodiazepines were also frequently found together with MDPV, which was to be expected since in Finland, in our experience, stimulants are very often used together with benzodiazepines. In most cases it remained unclear whether the observed psycho-physical achievement deficiency was induced by MDPV because the concentrations of other drugs, especially other stimulants, were often high. However, in some subjects, MDPV, or MDPV in combination with other substances was the most probable cause of the impairment. The concentrations of MDPV varied from 0.016mg/L to over 8.000mg/L. Little is known about the pharmacology of MDPV. However, based on our findings it is clear that MDPV has a serious impact on traffic safety in Finland.
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