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Glennon RA, Dukat M. 1-(2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI): From an Obscure to Pivotal Member of the DOX Family of Serotonergic Psychedelic Agents - A Review. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:1722-1745. [PMID: 38898956 PMCID: PMC11184610 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
1-(2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI, or DOX where X = -I) was first synthesized in 1973 in a structure-activity study to explore the effect of various aryl substituents on the then newly identified, and subsequently controlled, hallucinogenic agent 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOM, or DOX where X = -CH3). Over time, DOI was found to be a serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonist using various peripheral 5-HT receptor tissue assays and later, following the identification of multiple families of central 5-HT receptors, an agonist at 5-HT2 serotonin receptors in rat and, then, human brain. Today, classical hallucinogens, currently referred to as serotonergic psychedelic agents, are receiving considerable attention for their potential therapeutic application in various neuropsychiatric disorders including treatment-resistant depression. Here, we review, for the first time, the historical and current developments that led to DOI becoming a unique, perhaps a landmark, agent in 5-HT2 receptor research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A. Glennon
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry
School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Małgorzata Dukat
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry
School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
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2
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Ilyin NP, Nabiullin AD, Kozlova AD, Kupriyanova OV, Shevyrin VA, Gloriozova T, Filimonov D, Lagunin A, Galstyan DS, Kolesnikova TO, Mor MS, Efimova EV, Poroikov V, Yenkoyan KB, de Abreu MS, Demin KA, Kalueff AV. Chronic Behavioral and Neurochemical Effects of Four Novel N-Benzyl-2-phenylethylamine Derivatives Recently Identified as "Psychoactive" in Adult Zebrafish Screens. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:2006-2017. [PMID: 38683969 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Potently affecting human and animal brain and behavior, hallucinogenic drugs have recently emerged as potentially promising agents in psychopharmacotherapy. Complementing laboratory rodents, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a powerful model organism for screening neuroactive drugs, including hallucinogens. Here, we tested four novel N-benzyl-2-phenylethylamine (NBPEA) derivatives with 2,4- and 3,4-dimethoxy substitutions in the phenethylamine moiety and the -F, -Cl, and -OCF3 substitutions in the ortho position of the phenyl ring of the N-benzyl moiety (34H-NBF, 34H-NBCl, 24H-NBOMe(F), and 34H-NBOMe(F)), assessing their behavioral and neurochemical effects following chronic 14 day treatment in adult zebrafish. While the novel tank test behavioral data indicate anxiolytic-like effects of 24H-NBOMe(F) and 34H-NBOMe(F), neurochemical analyses reveal reduced brain norepinephrine by all four drugs, and (except 34H-NBCl) - reduced dopamine and serotonin levels. We also found reduced turnover rates for all three brain monoamines but unaltered levels of their respective metabolites. Collectively, these findings further our understanding of complex central behavioral and neurochemical effects of chronically administered novel NBPEAs and highlight the potential of zebrafish as a model for preclinical screening of small psychoactive molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita P Ilyin
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Arslan D Nabiullin
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia
| | - Anna D Kozlova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Olga V Kupriyanova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia
- Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia
| | - Vadim A Shevyrin
- Institute of Chemical Engineering, Ural Federal University, 19 Mira Str. ,Ekaterinburg 620002, Russia
| | - Tatyana Gloriozova
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya str., 10, bldg. 8 ,Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Dmitry Filimonov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya str., 10, bldg. 8 ,Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Alexey Lagunin
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya str., 10, bldg. 8 ,Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - David S Galstyan
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Tatiana O Kolesnikova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Cobrain Center, Yerevan State Medical University after Mkhitar Heratsi, Yerevan 0025, Armenia
| | - Mikael S Mor
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Evgeniya V Efimova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Vladimir Poroikov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya str., 10, bldg. 8 ,Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Konstantin B Yenkoyan
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Cobrain Center, Yerevan State Medical University after Mkhitar Heratsi, Yerevan 0025, Armenia
- Biochemistry Department, Yerevan State Medical University after Mkhitar Heratsi, Yerevan 0025, Armenia
| | - Murilo S de Abreu
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 900050, Brazil
| | - Konstantin A Demin
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
- Neurobiology Program, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sochi 354340, Russia
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology and Cell Signalling, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
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3
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Duan W, Cao D, Wang S, Cheng J. Serotonin 2A Receptor (5-HT 2AR) Agonists: Psychedelics and Non-Hallucinogenic Analogues as Emerging Antidepressants. Chem Rev 2024; 124:124-163. [PMID: 38033123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelics make up a group of psychoactive compounds that induce hallucinogenic effects by activating the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR). Clinical trials have demonstrated the traditional psychedelic substances like psilocybin as a class of rapid-acting and long-lasting antidepressants. However, there is a pressing need for rationally designed 5-HT2AR agonists that possess optimal pharmacological profiles in order to fully reveal the therapeutic potential of these agonists and identify safer drug candidates devoid of hallucinogenic effects. This Perspective provides an overview of the structure-activity relationships of existing 5-HT2AR agonists based on their chemical classifications and discusses recent advancements in understanding their molecular pharmacology at a structural level. The encouraging clinical outcomes of psychedelics in depression treatment have sparked drug discovery endeavors aimed at developing novel 5-HT2AR agonists with improved subtype selectivity and signaling bias properties, which could serve as safer and potentially nonhallucinogenic antidepressants. These efforts can be significantly expedited through the utilization of structure-based methods and functional selectivity-directed screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Duan
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Dongmei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Jianjun Cheng
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
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4
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Herian M, Świt P. 25X-NBOMe compounds - chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. A comprehensive review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2023; 53:15-33. [PMID: 37115704 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2194907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Recently, a growing number of reports have indicated a positive effect of hallucinogenic-based therapies in different neuropsychiatric disorders. However, hallucinogens belonging to the group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) may produce high toxicity. NPS, due to their multi-receptors affinity, are extremely dangerous for the human body and mental health. An example of hallucinogens that have been lately responsible for many severe intoxications and deaths are 25X-NBOMes - N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-substituted phenethylamines, synthetic compounds with strong hallucinogenic properties. 25X-NBOMes exhibit a high binding affinity to serotonin receptors but also to dopamine, adrenergic and histamine receptors. Apart from their influence on perception, many case reports point out systemic and neurological poisoning with these compounds. In humans, the most frequent side effects are tachycardia, anxiety, hypertension and seizures. Moreover, preclinical studies confirm that 25X-NBOMes cause developmental impairments, cytotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity and changes in behavior of animals. Metabolism of NBOMes seems to be very complex and involves many metabolic pathways. This fact may explain the observed high toxicity. In addition, many analytical methods have been applied in order to identify these compounds and their metabolites. The presented review summarized the current knowledge about 25X-NBOMes, especially in the context of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paweł Świt
- Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Deventer MH, Persson M, Laus A, Pottie E, Cannaert A, Tocco G, Gréen H, Stove CP. Off-target activity of NBOMes and NBOMe analogs at the µ opioid receptor. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:1367-1384. [PMID: 36853332 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03465-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are introduced on the illicit drug market at a rapid pace. Their molecular targets are often inadequately elucidated, which contributes to the delayed characterization of their pharmacological effects. Inspired by earlier findings, this study set out to investigate the µ opioid receptor (MOR) activation potential of a large set of psychedelics, substances which typically activate the serotonin (5-HT2A) receptor as their target receptor. We observed that some substances carrying the N-benzyl phenethylamine (NBOMe) structure activated MOR, as confirmed by both the NanoBiT® βarr2 recruitment assay and the G protein-based AequoScreen® Ca2+ release assay. The use of two orthogonal systems proved beneficial as some aspecific, receptor independent effects were found for various analogs when using the Ca2+ release assay. The specific 'off-target' effects at MOR could be blocked by the opioid antagonist naloxone, suggesting that these NBOMes occupy the same common opioid binding pocket as conventional opioids. This was corroborated by molecular docking, which revealed the plausibility of multiple interactions of 25I-NBOMe with MOR, similar to those observed for opioids. Additionally, structure-activity relationship findings seen in vitro were rationalized in silico for two 25I-NBOMe isomers. Overall, as MOR activity of these psychedelics was only noticed at high concentrations, we consider it unlikely that for the tested compounds there will be a relevant opioid toxicity in vivo at physiologically relevant concentrations. However, small modifications to the original NBOMe structure may result in a panel of more efficacious and potent MOR agonists, potentially exhibiting a dual MOR/5-HT2A activation potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mattias Persson
- Department of Forensic Genetic and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Antonio Laus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Eline Pottie
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Graziella Tocco
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Department of Forensic Genetic and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden.,Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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6
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Demin KA, Kupriyanova OV, Shevyrin VA, Derzhavina KA, Krotova NA, Ilyin NP, Kolesnikova TO, Galstyan DS, Kositsyn YM, Khaybaev AAS, Seredinskaya MV, Dubrovskii Y, Sadykova RG, Nerush MO, Mor MS, Petersen EV, Strekalova T, Efimova EV, Kuvarzin SR, Yenkoyan KB, Bozhko DV, Myrov VO, Kolchanova SM, Polovian AI, Galumov GK, Kalueff AV. Acute behavioral and Neurochemical Effects of Novel N-Benzyl-2-Phenylethylamine Derivatives in Adult Zebrafish. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:1902-1922. [PMID: 35671176 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hallucinogenic drugs potently affect brain and behavior and have also recently emerged as potentially promising agents in pharmacotherapy. Complementing laboratory rodents, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a powerful animal model organism for screening neuroactive drugs, including hallucinogens. Here, we test a battery of ten novel N-benzyl-2-phenylethylamine (NBPEA) derivatives with the 2,4- and 3,4-dimethoxy substitutions in the phenethylamine moiety and the -OCH3, -OCF3, -F, -Cl, and -Br substitutions in the ortho position of the phenyl ring of the N-benzyl moiety, assessing their acute behavioral and neurochemical effects in the adult zebrafish. Overall, substitutions in the Overall, substitutions in the N-benzyl moiety modulate locomotion, and substitutions in the phenethylamine moiety alter zebrafish anxiety-like behavior, also affecting the brain serotonin and/or dopamine turnover. The 24H-NBOMe(F) and 34H-NBOMe(F) treatment also reduced zebrafish despair-like behavior. Computational analyses of zebrafish behavioral data by artificial intelligence identified several distinct clusters for these agents, including anxiogenic/hypolocomotor (24H-NBF, 24H-NBOMe, and 34H-NBF), behaviorally inert (34H-NBBr, 34H-NBCl, and 34H-NBOMe), anxiogenic/hallucinogenic-like (24H-NBBr, 24H-NBCl, and 24H-NBOMe(F)), and anxiolytic/hallucinogenic-like (34H-NBOMe(F)) drugs. Our computational analyses also revealed phenotypic similarity of the behavioral activity of some NBPEAs to that of selected conventional serotonergic and antiglutamatergic hallucinogens. In silico functional molecular activity modeling further supported the overlap of the drug targets for NBPEAs tested here and the conventional serotonergic and antiglutamatergic hallucinogens. Overall, these findings suggest potent neuroactive properties of several novel synthetic NBPEAs, detected in a sensitive in vivo vertebrate model system, the zebrafish, raising the possibility of their potential clinical use and abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Demin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Olga V Kupriyanova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Volga Region Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia.,Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia
| | - Vadim A Shevyrin
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology, Ural Federal University, 19 Mira Str., Ekaterinburg 620002, Russia
| | - Ksenia A Derzhavina
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Nataliya A Krotova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Nikita P Ilyin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Tatiana O Kolesnikova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Neurobiology Program, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sochi 354340, Russia
| | - David S Galstyan
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Granov Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Pesochny 197758, Russia
| | - Yurii M Kositsyn
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | | | - Maria V Seredinskaya
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Yaroslav Dubrovskii
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia.,Institute of Chemistry, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,St. Petersburg State Chemical Pharmaceutical University, St. Petersburg 197022, Russia
| | | | - Maria O Nerush
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Mikael S Mor
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Elena V Petersen
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Moscow 141701, Russia
| | | | - Evgeniya V Efimova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Savelii R Kuvarzin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Konstantin B Yenkoyan
- Neuroscience Laboratory, COBRAIN Center, M. Heratsi Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan AM 0025, Armenia.,COBRAIN Scientific Educational Center for Fundamental Brain Research, Yerevan AM 0025, Armenia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Allan V Kalueff
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia.,Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg 620075, Russia.,Granov Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Pesochny 197758, Russia.,Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Moscow 141701, Russia.,COBRAIN Scientific Educational Center for Fundamental Brain Research, Yerevan AM 0025, Armenia.,Scientific Research Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Novosibirsk, 630117, Russia
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Psychonauts' psychedelics: A systematic, multilingual, web-crawling exercise. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 49:69-92. [PMID: 33857740 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelics alter the perception of reality through agonist or partial agonist interaction with the 2A serotoninergic receptor. They are classified as phenethylamines, tryptamines and lysergamides. These classes, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), account for an important percentage of the new psychoactive substances (NPS) current scenario.The paper aimed at: a) identifying and categorising psychedelic molecules from a list of psychonaut websites and NPS online resources; and b) comparing the NPSfinderⓇ results with those from the European and United Nations databases. A crawling software (i.e. 'NPSfinderⓇ') was created to automatically scan, 24/7, a list of URLs and to extract a range of information (chemical/street names, chemical formulae, etc.) to facilitate NPS identification. Data collected were manually analysed and compared with the EMCDDA and UNODC databases.The overall number of psychedelic NPS detected by NPSfinderⓇ (November 2017-February 2020) was 1344, almost ten-times higher than that reported by the UNODC and EMCDDA combined. Of these, 994 previously unknown molecules were identified as (potential) novel psychedelics, suggesting a strong discrepancy between online and real-world NPS scenarios. The results show the interest of psychonauts, and maybe of the much larger community of 'recreational' drug users, towards psychedelics. Moreover, examining online scenario may help in assessing the availability in the real world of psychedelic NPS; understanding drug trends; and in possibly predicting future drug scenarios.
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Hogendorf A, Hogendorf AS, Kurczab R, Satała G, Szewczyk B, Cieślik P, Latacz G, Handzlik J, Lenda T, Kaczorowska K, Staroń J, Bugno R, Duszyńska B, Bojarski AJ. N-Skatyltryptamines-Dual 5-HT 6R/D 2R Ligands with Antipsychotic and Procognitive Potential. Molecules 2021; 26:4605. [PMID: 34361754 PMCID: PMC8347595 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of N-skatyltryptamines was synthesized and their affinities for serotonin and dopamine receptors were determined. Compounds exhibited activity toward 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, 5-HT6, and D2 receptors. Substitution patterns resulting in affinity/activity switches were identified and studied using homology modeling. Chosen hits were screened to determine their metabolism, permeability, hepatotoxicity, and CYP inhibition. Several D2 receptor antagonists with additional 5-HT6R antagonist and agonist properties were identified. The former combination resembled known antipsychotic agents, while the latter was particularly interesting due to the fact that it has not been studied before. Selective 5-HT6R antagonists have been shown previously to produce procognitive and promnesic effects in several rodent models. Administration of 5-HT6R agonists was more ambiguous-in naive animals, it did not alter memory or produce slight amnesic effects, while in rodent models of memory impairment, they ameliorated the condition just like antagonists. Using the identified hit compounds 15 and 18, we tried to sort out the difference between ligands exhibiting the D2R antagonist function combined with 5-HT6R agonism, and mixed D2/5-HT6R antagonists in murine models of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Hogendorf
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Adam S. Hogendorf
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Rafał Kurczab
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Grzegorz Satała
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Bernadeta Szewczyk
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (B.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Paulina Cieślik
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (B.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Gniewomir Latacz
- Department of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland; (G.L.); (J.H.)
| | - Jadwiga Handzlik
- Department of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland; (G.L.); (J.H.)
| | - Tomasz Lenda
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Kaczorowska
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Jakub Staroń
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Ryszard Bugno
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Beata Duszyńska
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
| | - Andrzej J. Bojarski
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (A.H.); (A.S.H.); (R.K.); (G.S.); (K.K.); (J.S.); (R.B.); (B.D.)
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Alves de Barros W, Queiroz MP, da Silva Neto L, Borges GM, Martins FT, de Fátima Â. Synthesis of 25X-BOMes and 25X-NBOHs (X = H, I, Br) for pharmacological studies and as reference standards for forensic purposes. Tetrahedron Lett 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tetlet.2020.152804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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10
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Álvarez-Alarcón N, Osorio-Méndez JJ, Ayala-Fajardo A, Garzón-Méndez WF, Garavito-Aguilar ZV. Zebrafish and Artemia salina in vivo evaluation of the recreational 25C-NBOMe drug demonstrates its high toxicity. Toxicol Rep 2021; 8:315-323. [PMID: 33598409 PMCID: PMC7868744 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Very low concentrations of 25C-NBOMe cause high mortality rates in Artemia salina and zebrafish. 25C-NBOMe induces changes in behavioral patterns in Artemia salina and zebrafish animal models. 25C-NBOMe has teratogenic effects on zebrafish development.
The NBOMe (N-2-methoxybenzyl-phenethylamines) family of compounds are synthetic hallucinogens derived from the 2C series. Although this family of compounds has been responsible for multiple cases of acute toxicity and several deaths around the world, to date there are few studies. These compounds act as potent 5-HT2A receptor agonists, including the hallucinogen 25C-NBOMe (2-(4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine). In this study, we first evaluated the toxicity of 25C-NBOMe in two animal models: Artemia salina and zebrafish using the lethality test of Meyer et al. (1982) modified for Artemia salina and the Fish Embryo Toxicity test (FET) for zebrafish (Danio rerio). Subsequently, we determined the behavioral and morphological effects using different concentrations of the 25C-NBOMe. As a result, we found that this substance is highly toxic according to lethality tests in both animal models. We also observe that this hallucinogen induces alterations in swimming and motility patterns in Artemia salina. Similarly, there were alterations in the motor response to a stimulus, as well as abnormal development in the zebrafish. The developmental effects of zebrafish suggest a teratogenic potential for 25C-NBOMe. Therefore, these findings are correlated with side effects, such as motor response abnormalities and muscle deterioration, clinically reported for consumers of this recreational drug. Finally, although recent studies are addressing the neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity of 25C-NBOMe in cell cultures, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first in vivo report for 25C-NBOMe related to toxicological parameters and their global effects on development. Therefore, it could represent an advance in the study of the substance that contributes to the understanding of the effects on behavior and development in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Álvarez-Alarcón
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los Andes, Cra. 1 # 18A-12, Bloque A, Oficina 308, Bogotá D.C, 111711, Colombia.,Grupo de Investigación de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias y Educación, Licenciatura en Química, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Cra. 4 # 26B-54, 5th Floor, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Jhon Jairo Osorio-Méndez
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los Andes, Cra. 1 # 18A-12, Bloque A, Oficina 308, Bogotá D.C, 111711, Colombia.,Grupo de Investigación de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias y Educación, Licenciatura en Química, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Cra. 4 # 26B-54, 5th Floor, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Adis Ayala-Fajardo
- Grupo de Investigación de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias y Educación, Licenciatura en Química, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Cra. 4 # 26B-54, 5th Floor, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - William F Garzón-Méndez
- Chemistry Group, Central-Level, Fiscalía General de la Nación, Diagonal 22B # 52-01, Building L, 3rd Floor, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Zayra V Garavito-Aguilar
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los Andes, Cra. 1 # 18A-12, Bloque A, Oficina 308, Bogotá D.C, 111711, Colombia
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11
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Kamińska K, Świt P, Malek K. 2-(4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine (25I-NBOME): A Harmful Hallucinogen Review. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 44:947-956. [PMID: 32128596 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
NBOMes are N-benzylmethoxy derivatives of the 2C family compounds with N-2-methoxybenzyl moiety substituted by the methoxy group at the 2- and 5-position and the halogen group at the 4-position of the phenyl ring. These substances are a new class of potent serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist hallucinogens with potential harmful effects. The substitution with halogen of the already psychoactive phenethylamine produces a derivative (2C-I) with increased hallucinogenic effects. This class of hallucinogens has chemical structures very similar to natural hallucinogenic alkaloid mescaline and these are sold mainly via internet as a 'legal' alternative to other hallucinogenic drug-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). 25I-NBOMe is the first synthesized and one of the most common compound from NBOMes. Knowledge of pharmacological properties of 25I-NBOMe is very limited so far. There are only a few in vivo and in vitro so far published studies. The behavioral experiments are mainly related with the hallucinogenic effect of 25I-NBOMe while the in vitro studies concerning mainly the affinity for 5-HT2A receptors. The 25I-NBOMe Critical Review 2016 reported 51 non-fatal intoxications and 21 deaths associated with 25I-NBOMe across Europe. Case reports describe various toxic effects of 25I-NBOMe usage including tachycardia, hypertension, hallucinations, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury and death. The growing number of fatal and non-fatal intoxication cases indicates that 25I-NBOMe should be considered as a serious danger to public health. This review aims to present the current state of knowledge on pharmacological effects and chemical properties of 25I-NBOMe and to describe reported clinical cases and analytical methods available for identification of this agent in biological material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kamińska
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Bobrzynskiego 14, Krakow 30-348, Poland
| | - Paweł Świt
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Bobrzynskiego 14, Krakow 30-348, Poland
| | - Kamilla Malek
- Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow 30-387, Poland
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Lützen E, Holtkamp M, Stamme I, Schmid R, Sperling M, Pütz M, Karst U. Multimodal imaging of hallucinogens 25C‐ and 25I‐NBOMe on blotter papers. Drug Test Anal 2020; 12:465-471. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elias Lützen
- University of MünsterInstitute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry Münster Germany
| | - Michael Holtkamp
- University of MünsterInstitute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry Münster Germany
| | - Imke Stamme
- Criminal Police Office (BKA)Forensic Science Institute Wiesbaden Germany
| | - Robin Schmid
- University of MünsterInstitute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry Münster Germany
| | - Michael Sperling
- University of MünsterInstitute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry Münster Germany
- European Virtual Institute for Speciation Analysis (EVISA) Münster Germany
| | - Michael Pütz
- Criminal Police Office (BKA)Forensic Science Institute Wiesbaden Germany
| | - Uwe Karst
- University of MünsterInstitute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry Münster Germany
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13
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Miliano C, Marti M, Pintori N, Castelli MP, Tirri M, Arfè R, De Luca MA. Neurochemical and Behavioral Profiling in Male and Female Rats of the Psychedelic Agent 25I-NBOMe. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1406. [PMID: 31915427 PMCID: PMC6921684 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)phenethylamine (25I-NBOMe), commonly called “N-Bomb,” is a synthetic phenethylamine with psychedelic and entactogenic effects; it was available on the Internet both as a legal alternative to lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and as a surrogate of 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), but now it has been scheduled among controlled substances. 25I-NBOMe acts as full agonist on serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors. Users are often unaware of ingesting fake LSD, and several cases of intoxication and fatalities have been reported. In humans, overdoses of “N-Bomb” can cause tachycardia, hypertension, seizures, and agitation. Preclinical studies have not yet widely investigated the rewarding properties and behavioral effects of this compound in both sexes. Therefore, by in vivo microdialysis, we evaluated the effects of 25I-NBOMe on dopaminergic (DA) and serotonergic (5-HT) transmissions in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell and core, and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of male and female rats. Moreover, we investigated the effect of 25I-NBOMe on sensorimotor modifications as well as body temperature, nociception, and startle/prepulse inhibition (PPI). We showed that administration of 25I-NBOMe affects DA transmission in the NAc shell in both sexes, although showing different patterns; moreover, this compound causes impaired visual responses in both sexes, whereas core temperature is heavily affected in females, and the highest dose tested exerts an analgesic effect prominent in male rats. Indeed, this drug is able to impair the startle amplitude with the same extent in both sexes and inhibits the PPI in male and female rats. Our study fills the gap of knowledge on the behavioral effects of 25I-NBOMe and the risks associated with its ingestion; it focuses the attention on sex differences that might be useful to understand the trend of consumption as well as to recognize and treat intoxication and overdose symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Miliano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Universirty of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicholas Pintori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Universirty of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Universirty of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Sexton JD, Crawford MS, Sweat NW, Varley A, Green EE, Hendricks PS. Prevalence and epidemiological associates of novel psychedelic use in the United States adult population. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1058-1067. [PMID: 30816808 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119827796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel psychedelics approximate classic psychedelics, but unlike classic psychedelics, novel psychedelics have been used by humans for a shorter period of time, with fewer data available on these substances. AIMS The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of novel psychedelic use and the associations of novel psychedelic use with mental health outcomes. METHODS We estimated the prevalence of self-reported, write-in lifetime novel psychedelic use and evaluated the associations of novel psychedelic use with psychosocial characteristics, past month psychological distress, and past year suicidality among adult respondents pooled from years 2008-2016 of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (weighted n=234,914,788). RESULTS A fraction (weighted n=273,720; 0.12%) reported lifetime novel psychedelic use. This cohort tended to be younger, male, and White, have greater educational attainment but less income, be more likely to have never been married, engage in self-reported risky behavior, and report lifetime illicit use of other drugs, particularly classic psychedelics (96.9%). (2-(4-Bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)ethanamine) (2C-B) (30.01%), (2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine) (2C-I) (23.9%), and (1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-ethylphenyl)-2-aminoethane) (2C-E) (14.8%) accounted for the majority of lifetime novel psychedelic use. Although lifetime novel psychedelic use was not associated with psychological distress or suicidality compared to no lifetime novel psychedelic use or classic psychedelic use, relative to lifetime use of classic psychedelics but not novel psychedelics, lifetime novel psychedelic use was associated with a greater likelihood of past year suicidal thinking (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR)=1.4 (1.1-1.9)) and past year suicidal planning (aOR=1.6 (1.1-2.4)). CONCLUSION Novel psychedelics may differ from classic psychedelics in meaningful ways, though additional, directed research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D Sexton
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Michael S Crawford
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Noah W Sweat
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Allyson Varley
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Emma E Green
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Peter S Hendricks
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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15
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Canal CE. Serotonergic Psychedelics: Experimental Approaches for Assessing Mechanisms of Action. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2019; 252:227-260. [PMID: 29532180 PMCID: PMC6136989 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Recent, well-controlled - albeit small-scale - clinical trials show that serotonergic psychedelics, including psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide, possess great promise for treating psychiatric disorders, including treatment-resistant depression. Additionally, fresh results from a deluge of clinical neuroimaging studies are unveiling the dynamic effects of serotonergic psychedelics on functional activity within, and connectivity across, discrete neural systems. These observations have led to testable hypotheses regarding neural processing mechanisms that contribute to psychedelic effects and therapeutic benefits. Despite these advances and a plethora of preclinical and clinical observations supporting a central role for brain serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in producing serotonergic psychedelic effects, lingering and new questions about mechanisms abound. These chiefly pertain to molecular neuropharmacology. This chapter is devoted to illuminating and discussing such questions in the context of preclinical experimental approaches for studying mechanisms of action of serotonergic psychedelics, classic and new.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clinton E Canal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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16
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Sexton JD, Nichols CD, Hendricks PS. Population Survey Data Informing the Therapeutic Potential of Classic and Novel Phenethylamine, Tryptamine, and Lysergamide Psychedelics. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:896. [PMID: 32116806 PMCID: PMC7026018 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The majority of contemporary psychedelic research has focused on ayahuasca, lysergic acid diethylamide, and psilocybin, though there are hundreds of novel psychedelic compounds that may have clinical utility. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of classic and novel phenethylamine, tryptamine, and lysergamide psychedelics via a large, nationally representative population-based survey. METHODS We tested the unique associations of lifetime classic and novel phenethylamine, tryptamine, and lysergamide psychedelics with past month psychological distress and past year suicidality among respondents pooled from years 2008-2017 of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (weighted N = 260,964,827). RESULTS Lifetime classic tryptamine use was associated with a decreased odds of past month psychological distress [aOR = 0.76; (0.69-0.83)] and past year suicidal thinking [aOR = 0.79; (0.72-0.87)]. Lifetime novel phenethylamine use, on the other hand, was associated with an increased odds of past year suicidal thinking [aOR = 1.44; (1.06-1.95)] and past year suicidal planning [aOR = 1.60; (1.06-2.41)]. No other significant associations were found. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These findings, which may be driven by differences in pharmacodynamics, suggest that classic tryptamines may hold the greatest therapeutic potential of the psychedelics, whereas novel phenethylamines may pose risk for harm. The present findings thus support continued research on the clinical application of classic tryptamines. Though the current results caution against the clinical utility of novel phenethylamines, further study of these and other novel psychedelic substances is nonetheless warranted to better understand their potential application.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D Sexton
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Charles D Nichols
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Peter S Hendricks
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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17
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Abstract
Archeological studies in the United States, Mexico, and Peru suggest that mescaline, as a cactus constituent, has been used for more than 6000 years. Although it is a widespread cactus alkaloid, it is present in high concentrations in few species, notably the North American peyote ( Lophophora williamsii) and the South American wachuma ( Trichocereus pachanoi, T. peruvianus, and T. bridgesii). Spanish 16th century chroniclers considered these cacti "diabolic", leading to their prohibition, but their use persisted to our days and has been spreading for the last 150 years. In the late 1800s, peyote attracted scientific attention; mescaline was isolated, and its role in the psychedelic effects of peyote tops or "mescal buttons" was demonstrated. Its structure was established by synthesis in 1929, and alternative routes were developed, providing larger amounts for pharmacological and biosynthetic research. Although its effects are attributed mainly to its action as a 5-HT2A serotonin receptor agonist, mescaline binds in a similar concentration range to 5-HT1A and α2A receptors. It is largely excreted unchanged in human urine, and its metabolic products are apparently unrelated to its psychedelic properties. Its low potency is probably responsible for its relative neglect by recreational substance users, as the successful search for structure-activity relationships in the hallucinogen field focused largely on finding more potent analogues. Renewed interest in the possible therapeutic applications of psychedelic drugs may hopefully lead to novel insights regarding the commonalities and differences between the actions of individual classic hallucinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce K. Cassels
- Chemobiodynamics Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 7900003, Chile
| | - Patricio Sáez-Briones
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Behavior, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago 9170022, Chile
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18
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Seizures, Systemic Inflammatory Response, and Rhabdomyolysis Associated With Laboratory-Confirmed 2C-I and 25-I Exposure. Pediatr Emerg Care 2018; 34:e181-e183. [PMID: 28376067 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The 2C drugs are hallucinogenic phenethylamines. They and their n-benzyloxymethyl analogs have become popular as "legal highs," and significant toxicity has been attributed to their use. We report on a case of seizures, systemic inflammatory response, and rhabdomyolysis associated with laboratory-confirmed 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine and 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl) phenethylamine exposure. A 17-year-old male teenager developed seizures after taking "2 strips of acid." The seizures resolved with midazolam, but he became apneic and was intubated. His head computed tomography was unremarkable. Initial creatinine level was 1.5 mg/dL, with a creatine kinase of 112 U/L. His urine immunoassay drug screen was negative. He was extubated within 12 hours but had elevated temperatures for 48 hours. He was treated with antibiotics, but no source of infection was identified. His creatinine level peaked at 2.46 mg/dL. His creatine kinase peaked 72 hours later at 14579 U/L. He was treated with intravenous fluids and did not require renal replacement therapy. He recovered fully and was discharged after 5 days. Serum and urine samples were tested using liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry. We detected 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine and 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl) phenethylamine in both serum and urine. No other substances were detected. The 2C drugs and their n-benzyloxymethyl analogs are potent serotonergic agents. Their use has been associated with multiple adverse effects including seizures, rhabdomyolysis, and death. They should be considered in differential diagnosis for drug-induced seizures and as a cause for systemic inflammatory response. This case highlights the significant toxicity seen with these compounds.
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Abstract
This chapter will summarize structure-activity relationships (SAR) that are known for the classic serotonergic hallucinogens (aka psychedelics), focusing on the three chemical types: tryptamines, ergolines, and phenethylamines. In the brain, the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor plays a key role in regulation of cortical function and cognition, and also appears to be the principal target for hallucinogenic/psychedelic drugs such as LSD. It is one of the most extensively studied of the 14 known types of serotonin receptors. Important structural features will be identified for activity and, where possible, those that the psychedelics have in common will be discussed. Because activation of the 5-HT2A receptor is the principal mechanism of action for psychedelics, compounds with 5-HT2A agonist activity generally are quickly discarded by the pharmaceutical industry. Thus, most of the research on psychedelics can be related to activation of 5-HT2A receptors. Therefore, much of the discussion will include not only clinical or anecdotal studies, but also will consider data from animal models as well as a certain amount of molecular pharmacology where it is known.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Nichols
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
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20
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Hermanns-Clausen M, Angerer V, Kithinji J, Grumann C, Auwärter V. Bad trip due to 25I-NBOMe: a case report from the EU project SPICE II plus. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2017; 55:922-924. [DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2017.1319572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maren Hermanns-Clausen
- Poisons Information Centre, Centre for Pediatrics, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Verena Angerer
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Josephine Kithinji
- Poisons Information Centre, Centre for Pediatrics, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christina Grumann
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
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21
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Halberstadt AL. Pharmacology and Toxicology of N-Benzylphenethylamine ("NBOMe") Hallucinogens. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 32:283-311. [PMID: 28097528 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Serotonergic hallucinogens induce profound changes in perception and cognition. The characteristic effects of hallucinogens are mediated by 5-HT2A receptor activation. One class of hallucinogens are 2,5-dimethoxy-substituted phenethylamines, such as the so-called 2C-X compounds 2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (2C-I). Addition of an N-benzyl group to phenethylamine hallucinogens produces a marked increase in 5-HT2A-binding affinity and hallucinogenic potency. N-benzylphenethylamines ("NBOMes") such as N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (25I-NBOMe) show subnanomolar affinity for the 5-HT2A receptor and are reportedly highly potent in humans. Several NBOMEs have been available from online vendors since 2010, resulting in numerous cases of toxicity and multiple fatalities. This chapter reviews the structure-activity relationships, behavioral pharmacology, metabolism, and toxicity of members of the NBOMe hallucinogen class. Based on a review of 51 cases of NBOMe toxicity reported in the literature, it appears that rhabdomyolysis is a relatively common complication of severe NBOMe toxicity, an effect that may be linked to NBOMe-induced seizures, hyperthermia, and vasoconstriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam L Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA.
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Classic hallucinogens share pharmacology as serotonin 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, and 5-HT2C receptor agonists. Unique among most other Schedule 1 drugs, they are generally non-addictive and can be effective tools in the treatment of addiction. Mechanisms underlying these attributes are largely unknown. However, many preclinical studies show that 5-HT2C agonists counteract the addictive effects of drugs from several classes, suggesting this pharmacological property of classic hallucinogens may be significant. Drawing from a comprehensive analysis of preclinical behavior, neuroanatomy, and neurochemistry studies, this review builds rationale for this hypothesis, and also proposes a testable, neurobiological framework. 5-HT2C agonists work, in part, by modulating dopamine neuron activity in the ventral tegmental area-nucleus accumbens (NAc) reward pathway. We argue that activation of 5-HT2C receptors on NAc shell, GABAergic, medium spiny neurons inhibits potassium Kv1.x channels, thereby enhancing inhibitory activity via intrinsic mechanisms. Together with experiments that show that addictive drugs, such as cocaine, potentiate Kv1.x channels, thereby suppressing NAc shell GABAergic activity, this hypothesis provides a mechanism by which classic hallucinogen-mediated stimulation of 5-HT2C receptors could thwart addiction. It also provides a potential reason for the non-addictive nature of classic hallucinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clinton E Canal
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, USA
| | - Kevin S Murnane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University College of Pharmacy, Mercer University Health Sciences Center, Atlanta, USA
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23
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Tyrkkö E, Andersson M, Kronstrand R. The Toxicology of New Psychoactive Substances: Synthetic Cathinones and Phenylethylamines. Ther Drug Monit 2016; 38:190-216. [PMID: 26587869 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New psychoactive substances (NPSs) are substitutes for classical drugs of abuse and there are now compounds available from all groups of classical drugs of abuse. During 2014, the number of synthetic cathinones increased dramatically and, together with phenylethylamines, they dominate the NPS markets in the European Union. In total, 31 cathinones and 9 phenylethylamines were encountered in 2014. The aim of this article was to summarize the existing knowledge about the basic pharmacology, metabolism, and human toxicology of relevant synthetic cathinones and phenylethylamines. Compared with existing reviews, we have also compiled the existing case reports from both fatal and nonfatal intoxications. METHODS We performed a comprehensive literature search using bibliographic databases PubMed and Web of Science, complemented with Google Scholar. The focus of the literature search was on original articles, case reports, and previously published review articles published in 2014 or earlier. RESULTS The rapid increase of NPSs is a growing concern and sets new challenges not only for societies in drug prevention and legislation but also in clinical and forensic toxicology. In vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated that the pharmacodynamic profile of cathinones is similar to that of other psychomotor stimulants. Metabolism studies show that cathinones and phenylethylamines are extensively metabolized; however, the parent compound is usually detectable in human urine. In vitro studies have shown that many cathinones and phenylethylamines are metabolized by CYP2D6 enzymes. This indicates that these drugs may have many possible drug-drug interactions and that genetic polymorphism may influence their toxicity. However, the clinical and toxicological relevance of CYP2D6 in adverse effects of cathinones and phenylethylamines is questionable, because these compounds are metabolized by other enzymes as well. The toxidromes commonly encountered after ingestion of cathinones and phenylethylamines are mainly of sympathomimetic and hallucinogenic character with a risk of excited delirium and life-threatening cardiovascular effects. CONCLUSIONS The acute and chronic toxicity of many NPSs is unknown or very sparsely investigated. There is a need for evidence-based-treatment recommendations for acute intoxications and a demand for new strategies to analyze these compounds in clinical and forensic cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elli Tyrkkö
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
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Wohlfarth A, Roman M, Andersson M, Kugelberg FC, Diao X, Carlier J, Eriksson C, Wu X, Konradsson P, Josefsson M, Huestis MA, Kronstrand R. 25C-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe metabolite studies in human hepatocytes, in vivo mouse and human urine with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2016; 9:680-698. [PMID: 27448631 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
25C-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe are potent hallucinogenic drugs that recently emerged as new psychoactive substances. To date, a few metabolism studies were conducted for 25I-NBOMe, whereas 25C-NBOMe metabolism data are scarce. Therefore, we investigated the metabolic profile of these compounds in human hepatocytes, an in vivo mouse model and authentic human urine samples from forensic cases. Cryopreserved human hepatocytes were incubated for 3 h with 10 μM 25C-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe; samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) on an Accucore C18 column with a Thermo QExactive; data analysis was performed with Compound Discoverer software (Thermo Scientific). Mice were administered 1.0 mg drug/kg body weight intraperitoneally, urine was collected for 24 h and analyzed (with or without hydrolysis) by LC-HRMS on an Acquity HSS T3 column with an Agilent 6550 QTOF; data were analyzed manually and with WebMetabase software (Molecular Discovery). Human urine samples were analyzed similarly. In vitro and in vivo results matched well. 25C-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe were predominantly metabolized by O-demethylation, followed by O-di-demethylation and hydroxylation. All methoxy groups could be demethylated; hydroxylation preferably occurred at the NBOMe ring. Phase I metabolites were extensively conjugated in human urine with glucuronic acid and sulfate. Based on these data and a comparison with synthesized reference standards for potential metabolites, specific and abundant 25C-NBOMe urine targets are 5'-desmethyl 25C-NBOMe, 25C-NBOMe and 5-hydroxy 25C-NBOMe, and for 25I-NBOMe 2' and 5'-desmethyl 25I-NBOMe and hydroxy 25I-NBOMe. These data will help clinical and forensic laboratories to develop analytical methods and to interpret results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Wohlfarth
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 58758, Linköping, Sweden.,Division of Drug Research, Department of Medical Health Sciences, Linköping University, 58185, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Markus Roman
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 58758, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Mikael Andersson
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 58758, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Fredrik C Kugelberg
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 58758, Linköping, Sweden.,Division of Drug Research, Department of Medical Health Sciences, Linköping University, 58185, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Xingxing Diao
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism Section, Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Jeremy Carlier
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism Section, Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Caroline Eriksson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Xiongyu Wu
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Peter Konradsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Martin Josefsson
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 58758, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Robert Kronstrand
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 58758, Linköping, Sweden.,Division of Drug Research, Department of Medical Health Sciences, Linköping University, 58185, Linköping, Sweden
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Risoluti R, Materazzi S, Gregori A, Ripani L. Early detection of emerging street drugs by near infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics. Talanta 2016; 153:407-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2016.02.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Laskowski LK, Elbakoush F, Calvo J, Exantus-Bernard G, Fong J, Poklis JL, Poklis A, Nelson LS. Evolution of the NBOMes: 25C- and 25B- Sold as 25I-NBOMe. J Med Toxicol 2016; 11:237-41. [PMID: 25387562 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-014-0445-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The NBOMes (N-benzyl-oxy-methyl derivatives of known 2C phenylethylamines) are a new and growing class of potent synthetic stimulants. Case reports provide the bulk of available safety and clinical data for clinicians. We report two cases of NBOMe intoxication with 25C-NBOMe (the first lab-confirmed US case) and 25B-NBOMe, respectively, both confirmed via triple quadrapole mass spectrometry. CASE REPORTS Case 1: A 16-year-old girl had a generalized seizure after reported use of 25I-NBOMe. She presented with altered mental status, lower extremity rigidity, and elevated CPK (6042 U/L). Despite treatment with benzodiazepines, her lower extremity rigidity persisted and CPK peaked at 47,906 U/L. She was discharged on hospital day 8. Serum and urine specimens confirmed presence of 25C-NBOMe. Case 2: A 15-year-old boy developed bizarre behavior after reported use of 25I-NBOMe. In the ED, he had two generalized seizures and persistent muscle rigidity. CPK peaked at 429 U/L. Seizures were managed with benzodiazepines, and he was discharged within 24 h. Serum specimens revealed 25B-NBOMe. DISCUSSION NBOMes are amphetamine derivatives and highly potent 5-HT(2A) receptor agonists. Clinical manifestations are a product of enhanced central sympathetic and serotonergic tone. We report two cases of NBOMe intoxication in patients who believed they used 25I-NBOME, while lab confirmation proved otherwise. Whether unique clinical manifestations are specific to the NBOMe variant, dose, route of administration, or other factors is unknown. Laboratory confirmation may play a role in identifying unexpected NBOMe variants, while contributing to the epidemiologic data on these novel substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa K Laskowski
- New York University School of Medicine/New York City Poison Control Center, 455 First Avenue Room 123, New York, NY, 10016, USA,
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Next generation of novel psychoactive substances on the horizon - A complex problem to face. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 157:1-17. [PMID: 26482089 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The last decade has seen a rapid and continuous growth in the availability and use of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) across the world. Although various products are labeled with warnings "not for human consumption", they are intended to mimic psychoactive effects of illicit drugs of abuse. Once some compounds become regulated, new analogues appear in order to satisfy consumers' demands and at the same time to avoid criminalization. This review presents updated information on the second generation of NPS, introduced as replacements of the already banned substances from this class, focusing on their pharmacological properties and metabolism, routes of administration, and effects in humans. METHODS Literature search, covering years 2013-2015, was performed using the following keywords alone or in combination: "novel psychoactive substances", "cathinones", "synthetic cannabinoids", "benzofurans", "phenethylamines", "2C-drugs", "NBOMe", "methoxetamine", "opioids", "toxicity", and "metabolism". RESULTS More than 400 NPS have been reported in Europe, with 255 detected in 2012-2014. The most popular are synthetic cannabimimetics and psychostimulant cathinones; use of psychedelics and opioids is less common. Accumulating experimental and clinical data indicate that potential harms associated with the use of second generation NPS could be even more serious than those described for the already banned drugs. CONCLUSIONS NPS are constantly emerging on the illicit drug market and represent an important health problem. A significant amount of research is needed in order to fully quantify both the short and long term effects of the second generation NPS, and their interaction with other drugs of abuse.
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Gee P, Schep LJ, Jensen BP, Moore G, Barrington S. Case series: toxicity from 25B-NBOMe – a cluster of N-bomb cases. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2015; 54:141-6. [DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2015.1115056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Gee
- Emergency Physician, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Leo J. Schep
- Toxicologist National Poisons Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Berit P. Jensen
- Scientific Officer, Toxicology, Specialist Cluster, Canterbury Health Laboratories, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Grant Moore
- Toxicology Section Head, Specialist Cluster, Canterbury Health Laboratories, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Stuart Barrington
- Emergency Physician, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Kumar JSD, Mann JJ. PET tracers for serotonin receptors and their applications. Cent Nerv Syst Agents Med Chem 2015; 14:96-112. [PMID: 25360773 DOI: 10.2174/1871524914666141030124316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Revised: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin receptors (5-HTRs) are implicated in the pathophysiology of a variety of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders and are also targets for drug therapy. In the CNS, most of these receptors are expressed in high abundance in specific brain regions reflecting their role in brain functions. Quantifying binding to 5-HTRs in vivo may permit assessment of physiologic and pathologic conditions, and monitoring disease progression, evaluating treatment response, and for investigating new treatment modalities. Positron emission tomography (PET) molecular imaging has the sensitivity to quantify binding of 5-HTRs in CNS disorders and to measure drug occupancy as part of a process of new drug development. Although research on PET imaging of 5-HTRs have been performed more than two decades, the successful radiotracers so far developed for human studies are limited to 5-HT₁AR, 5-HT₁BR, 5-HT₂AR, 5-HT₄R and 5-HT₆R. Herein we review the development and application of radioligands for PET imaging of 5-HTRs in living brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J John Mann
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, Box: 42, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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Rickli A, Luethi D, Reinisch J, Buchy D, Hoener MC, Liechti ME. Receptor interaction profiles of novel N-2-methoxybenzyl (NBOMe) derivatives of 2,5-dimethoxy-substituted phenethylamines (2C drugs). Neuropharmacology 2015; 99:546-53. [PMID: 26318099 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND N-2-methoxybenzyl-phenethylamines (NBOMe drugs) are newly used psychoactive substances with poorly defined pharmacological properties. The aim of the present study was to characterize the receptor binding profiles of a series of NBOMe drugs compared with their 2,5-dimethoxy-phenethylamine analogs (2C drugs) and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in vitro. METHODS We investigated the binding affinities of 2C drugs (2C-B, 2C-C, 2C-D, 2C-E, 2C-H, 2C-I, 2C-N, 2C-P, 2C-T-2, 2C-T-4, 2C-T-7, and mescaline), their NBOMe analogs, and LSD at monoamine receptors and determined functional 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A) and 5-HT2B receptor activation. Binding at and the inhibition of monoamine uptake transporters were also determined. Human cells that were transfected with the respective human receptors or transporters were used (with the exception of trace amine-associated receptor-1 [TAAR1], in which rat/mouse receptors were used). RESULTS All of the compounds potently interacted with serotonergic 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C receptors and rat TAAR1 (most Ki and EC50: <1 μM). The N-2-methoxybenzyl substitution of 2C drugs increased the binding affinity at serotonergic 5-HT2A, 5-HT2C, adrenergic α1, dopaminergic D1-3, and histaminergic H1 receptors and monoamine transporters but reduced binding to 5-HT1A receptors and TAAR1. As a result, NBOMe drugs were very potent 5-HT2A receptor agonists (EC50: 0.04-0.5 μM) with high 5-HT2A/5-HT1A selectivity and affinity for adrenergic α1 receptors (Ki: 0.3-0.9 μM) and TAAR1 (Ki: 0.06-2.2 μM), similar to LSD, but not dopaminergic D1-3 receptors (most Ki:>1 μM), unlike LSD. CONCLUSION The binding profile of NBOMe drugs predicts strong hallucinogenic effects, similar to LSD, but possibly more stimulant properties because of α1 receptor interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rickli
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dino Luethi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julian Reinisch
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Danièle Buchy
- Neuroscience Research, pRED, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marius C Hoener
- Neuroscience Research, pRED, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Prabhakaran J, Underwood MD, Kumar JSD, Simpson NR, Kassir SA, Bakalian MJ, Mann JJ, Arango V. Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of [18F]FECIMBI-36: A potential agonist PET ligand for 5-HT2A/2C receptors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2015; 25:3933-6. [PMID: 26253634 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2015.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Radiosynthesis and in vitro evaluation of [(18)F]-2-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-(2-fluoroethoxy)benzyl)ethanamine, ([(18)F]FECIMBI-36) or ([(18)F]1), a potential agonist PET imaging agent for 5-HT2A/2C receptors is described. Syntheses of reference standard 1 and the corresponding des-fluoroethyl radiolabeling precursor (2) were achieved with 75% and 65% yields, respectively. In vitro pharmacology assay of FECIMBI-36 by [(3)H]-ketanserin competition binding assay obtained from NIMH-PDSP showed high affinities to 5-HT2AR (Ki = 1nM) and 5-HT2CR (Ki=1.7 nM). Radiolabeling of FECIMBI-36 was achieved from the boc-protected precursor 2 using [(18)F]-fluoroethyltosylate in presence of Cs2CO3 in DMSO followed by removal of the protective group. [(18)F]1 was isolated using RP-HPLC in 25 ± 5% yield, purity > 95% and specific activity 1-2Ci/μmol (N = 6). In vitro autoradiography studies demonstrate that [(18)F]1 selectively label 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors in slide-mounted sections of postmortem human brain using phosphor imaging. Our results indicate the potential of [(18)F]1 for imaging 5-HT2A/2C receptors in the high affinity state in vivo using PET imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Prabhakaran
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Mark D Underwood
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - J S Dileep Kumar
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Norman R Simpson
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Suham A Kassir
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mihran J Bakalian
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - J John Mann
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Victoria Arango
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
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Weaver MF, Hopper JA, Gunderson EW. Designer drugs 2015: assessment and management. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2015; 10:8. [PMID: 25928069 PMCID: PMC4422150 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-015-0024-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent designer drugs, also known as “legal highs,” include substituted cathinones (e.g., mephedrone, methylone, and methylenedioxypyrovalerone, often referred to as “bath salts”); synthetic cannabinoids (SCs; e.g., Spice); and synthetic hallucinogens (25I-NBOMe, or N-bomb). Compound availability has evolved rapidly to evade legal regulation and detection by routine drug testing. Young adults are the primary users, but trends are changing rapidly; use has become popular among members of the military. Acute toxicity is common and often manifests with a constellation of psychiatric and medical effects, which may be severe (e.g., anxiety, agitation, psychosis, and tachycardia), and multiple deaths have been reported with each of these types of designer drugs. Clinicians should keep designer drugs in mind when evaluating substance use in young adults or in anyone presenting with acute neuropsychiatric complaints. Treatment of acute intoxication involves supportive care targeting manifesting signs and symptoms. Long-term treatment of designer drug use disorder can be challenging and is complicated by a lack of evidence to guide treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F Weaver
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1941 East Road, BBSB 1222, 77054, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - John A Hopper
- St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, 5333 McAuley Drive, Suite R-3009, 48197-1014, Ypsilanti, MI, USA.
| | - Erik W Gunderson
- The University of Virginia, Center for Wellness and Change, 1007 East High Street, 22902, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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Fantegrossi WE, Gray BW, Bailey JM, Smith D, Hansen M, Kristensen JL. Hallucinogen-like effects of 2-([2-(4-cyano-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl) ethylamino]methyl)phenol (25CN-NBOH), a novel N-benzylphenethylamine with 100-fold selectivity for 5-HT₂A receptors, in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2015; 232:1039-47. [PMID: 25224567 PMCID: PMC4339409 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-014-3739-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE 2-([2-(4-cyano-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)ethylamino]methyl)phenol (25CN-NBOH) is structurally similar to N-benzyl substituted phenethylamine hallucinogens currently emerging as drugs of abuse. 25CN-NBOH exhibits dramatic selectivity for 5-HT2A receptors in vitro, but has not been behaviorally characterized. OBJECTIVE 25CN-NBOH was compared to the traditional phenethylamine hallucinogen R(-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) using mouse models of drug-elicited head twitch behavior and drug discrimination. METHODS Drug-elicited head twitches were quantified for 10 min following administration of various doses of either DOI or 25CN-NBOH, with and without pretreatments of 0.01 mg/kg 5-HT2A antagonist M100907 or 3.0 mg/kg 5-HT2C antagonist RS102221. The capacity of 25CN-NBOH to attenuate DOI-elicited head twitch was also investigated. Mice were trained to discriminate DOI or M100907 from saline, and 25CN-NBOH was tested for generalization. RESULTS 25CN-NBOH induced a head twitch response in the mouse that was lower in magnitude than that of DOI, blocked by M100907, but not altered by RS102221. DOI-elicited head twitch was dose-dependently attenuated by 25CN-NBOH pretreatment. 25CN-NBOH produced an intermediate degree of generalization (55 %) for the DOI training dose, and these interoceptive effects were attenuated by M100907. Finally, 25CN-NBOH did not generalize to M100907 at any dose, but ketanserin fully substituted in these animals. CONCLUSIONS 25CN-NBOH was behaviorally active, but less effective than DOI in two mouse models of hallucinogenic effects. The effectiveness with which M100907 antagonized the behavioral actions of 25CN-NBOH strongly suggests that the 5-HT2A receptor is an important site of agonist action for this compound in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E. Fantegrossi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Mail Slot 638, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205 USA
| | - Bradley W. Gray
- School of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Jessica M. Bailey
- Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Douglas Smith
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA USA
| | - Martin Hansen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark,Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (CIMBI), Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper L. Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark,Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (CIMBI), Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Appendino G, Minassi A, Taglialatela-Scafati O. Recreational drug discovery: natural products as lead structures for the synthesis of smart drugs. Nat Prod Rep 2014; 31:880-904. [PMID: 24823967 DOI: 10.1039/c4np00010b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Covering: up to December 2013. Over the past decade, there has been a growing transition in recreational drugs from natural materials (marijuana, hashish, opium), natural products (morphine, cocaine), or their simple derivatives (heroin), to synthetic agents more potent than their natural prototypes, which are sometimes less harmful in the short term, or that combine properties from different classes of recreational prototypes. These agents have been named smart drugs, and have become popular both for personal consumption and for collective intoxication at rave parties. The reasons for this transition are varied, but are mainly regulatory and commercial. New analogues of known illegal intoxicants are invisible to most forensic detection techniques, while the alleged natural status and the lack of avert acute toxicity make them appealing to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the advent of the internet has made possible the quick dispersal of information among users and the on-line purchase of these agents and/or the precursors for their synthesis. Unlike their natural products chemotypes (ephedrine, mescaline, cathinone, psilocybin, THC), most new drugs of abuse are largely unfamiliar to the organic chemistry community as well as to health care providers. To raise awareness of the growing plague of smart drugs we have surveyed, in a medicinal chemistry fashion, their development from natural products leads, their current methods of production, and the role that clandestine home laboratories and underground chemists have played in the surge of popularity of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy.
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Nikolaou P, Papoutsis I, Stefanidou M, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S. 2C-I-NBOMe, an “N-bomb” that kills with “Smiles”. Toxicological and legislative aspects. Drug Chem Toxicol 2014; 38:113-9. [DOI: 10.3109/01480545.2014.911882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Stellpflug SJ, Kealey SE, Hegarty CB, Janis GC. 2-(4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine (25I-NBOMe): clinical case with unique confirmatory testing. J Med Toxicol 2014; 10:45-50. [PMID: 23872917 PMCID: PMC3951642 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-013-0314-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 2C designer drugs have been in use since the 1970s, but new drugs continue to develop from substitutions to the base phenethylamine structure. This creates new clinical profiles and difficulty with laboratory confirmation. 2-(4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine (25I-NBOMe) is a relatively new 2C drug that is more potent than structural 2C analogs; exposure reports are rare. Testing for 2C drugs is developing; specific testing for new analogs such as 25I-NBOMe is a challenge. These drugs do not reliably trigger a positive result on rapid drug immunoassays. Additionally, most facilities with confirmatory testing capabilities will not identify 25I-NBOMe; methods for detecting 25I-NBOMe in biological samples have not been clearly described nor have optimal metabolic targets for detecting 25I-NBOMe ingestion. CASE REPORT An 18-year-old female presented following use of 25I-NBOMe. She had an isolated brief seizure, tachycardia, hypertension, agitation, and confusion. She improved with intravenously administered fluids and benzodiazepines and was discharged 7 h postingestion. Urine was analyzed using quantitative LC-MS/MS methodology for 25I-NBOMe, 2-(4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)-methyl]ethanamine (25C-NBOMe), and 2-(2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine (25H-NBOMe). 25I-NBOMe was found at a concentration of 7.5 ng/mL, and 25H-NBOMe was detected as well. Additional testing was pursued to characterize the metabolism of 25I-NBOMe; the sample was reanalyzed with UPLC-time-of-flight mass spectrometry to identify excreted metabolites. The sample was additionally analyzed for the presence of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (2C-I), 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B), and 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-ethylphenyl)-2-aminoethane (2C-E). DISCUSSION This is a report of a patient presenting following exposure to 25I-NBOMe, a dangerous member of the evolving 2C drug class. The exposure was confirmed in a unique manner that could prove helpful in guiding further patient analysis and laboratory studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J. Stellpflug
- />Clinical Toxicology Service and Department of Emergency Medicine, Regions Hospital, St. Paul, MN USA
- />Department of Emergency Medicine, Regions Hospital, 640 Jackson St., Saint Paul, MN 55101 USA
| | - Samantha E. Kealey
- />Clinical Toxicology Service and Department of Emergency Medicine, Regions Hospital, St. Paul, MN USA
| | - Cullen B. Hegarty
- />Clinical Toxicology Service and Department of Emergency Medicine, Regions Hospital, St. Paul, MN USA
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Poklis JL, Clay DJ, Poklis A. High-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry for the determination of nine hallucinogenic 25-NBOMe designer drugs in urine specimens. J Anal Toxicol 2014; 38:113-21. [PMID: 24535338 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bku005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a high-performance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS-MS) method for the identification and quantification of nine serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist hallucinogenic substances from a new class of N-methoxybenzyl derivatives of methoxyphenylethylamine (NBOMe) designer drugs in human urine: 25H-NBOMe, 2CC-NBOMe, 25I-NBF, 25D-NBOMe, 25B-NBOMe, 2CT-NBOMe, 25I-NBMD, 25G-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe. This assay was developed for the Virginia Commonwealth University Clinical and Forensic Toxicology laboratory to screen emergency department specimens in response to an outbreak of N-benzyl-phenethylamine derivative abuse and overdose cases in Virginia. The NBOMe derivatives were rapidly extracted from the urine specimens by use of FASt™ solid-phase extraction columns. Assay performance was determined as recommended for validation by the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Toxicology (SWGTOX) for linearity, lower limit of quantification, lower limit of detection, accuracy/bias, precision, dilution integrity, carryover, selectivity, absolute recovery, ion suppression and stability. Linearity was verified to be from 1 to 100 ng/mL for each of the nine analytes. The bias determined for the NBOMe derivatives was 86-116% with a <14% coefficient of variation over the linear range of the assay. Four different NBOMe derivatives were detected using the presented method in patient urine specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Poklis
- 1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA
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Poklis JL, Devers KG, Arbefeville EF, Pearson JM, Houston E, Poklis A. Postmortem detection of 25I-NBOMe [2-(4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine] in fluids and tissues determined by high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry from a traumatic death. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 234:e14-20. [PMID: 24215811 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
We present a traumatic fatality of a 19-year-old man who had ingested blotter paper containing 25I-NBOMe [2-(4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine]. Postmortem specimens were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS). Toxicology findings for fluids based upon blood or urine calibrators were as follows: peripheral blood, 405 pg/mL; heart blood, 410 pg/mL; urine, 2.86 ng/mL; and vitreous humor, 99 pg/mL. While findings based upon the method of standard additions were: gastric contents, 7.1 μg total; bile, 10.9 ng/g; brain, 2.54 ng/g and liver, 7.2 ng/g. To our knowledge the presented case is the first postmortem case of 25I-NBOMe intoxication documented by toxicological analysis of tissues and body fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
| | - Kelly G Devers
- Hillsborough County Medical Examiner Department, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Julia M Pearson
- Hillsborough County Medical Examiner Department, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Alphonse Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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Halberstadt AL, Geyer MA. Effects of the hallucinogen 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (2C-I) and superpotent N-benzyl derivatives on the head twitch response. Neuropharmacology 2013; 77:200-7. [PMID: 24012658 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2013.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 08/17/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
N-benzyl substitution markedly enhances the affinity of phenethylamine hallucinogens at the 5-HT(2A) receptor. N-benzyl substituted derivatives of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (2C-I), such as N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (25I-NBOMe) and N-(2,3-methylenedioxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (25I-NBMD), have appeared recently as designer drugs, but have not been characterized behaviorally. The head twitch response (HTR) is induced by 5-HT(2A) receptor activation in rats and mice, and is widely used as a behavioral proxy for hallucinogen effects in humans. Nevertheless, it is not clear whether phenethylamine hallucinogens reliably provoke this behavior. Hence, we investigated whether 2C-I, 25I-NBOMe and 25I-NBMD induce head twitches in C57BL/6J mice. The HTR was assessed using a head-mounted magnet and a magnetometer coil. 2C-I (1-10 mg/kg SC), 25I-NBOMe (0.1-1 mg/kg SC), and 25I-NBMD (1-10 mg/kg SC) induced the HTR. 25I-NBOMe displayed 14-fold higher potency than 2C-I, and the selective 5-HT(2A) antagonist M100,907 completely blocked the HTR induced by all three compounds. These findings show that phenethylamine hallucinogens induce the HTR by activating 5-HT(2A) receptors. Our results demonstrate that 25I-NBOMe is a highly potent derivative of 2C-I, confirming previous in vitro findings that N-benzyl substitution increases 5-HT(2A) affinity. Given the high potency and ease of synthesis of N-benzylphenethylamines, it is likely that the recreational use of these hallucinogens will become more widespread in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam L Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0804, USA.
| | - Mark A Geyer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0804, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
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Poklis JL, Nanco CR, Troendle MM, Wolf CE, Poklis A. Determination of 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]-benzeneethanamine (25B-NBOMe) in serum and urine by high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry in a case of severe intoxication. Drug Test Anal 2013; 6:764-9. [PMID: 24000244 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 07/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We present a case of 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]-benzeneethanamine (25B-NBOMe), an N-benzyl phenethylamines derivative, intoxication and a high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method for detection and quantification of 25B-NBOMe. A 19-year-old male was found unresponsive with generalized grand mal seizure activity. On the second day of hospitalization, a friend admitted that the patient used 'some unknown drug' called 25B. Serum and urine collected were sent to the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center Toxicology Laboratory for analysis. An HPLC-MS/MS method for the identification and quantification of 25B-NBOMe using 2-(2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine (25H-NBOMe) as the internal standard (ISTD) was developed. As this is a novel, single-case presentation, an assay validation was performed prior to testing to ensure the reliability of the analytical results. The serum and urine specimens were determined to contain 180 pg/ml and1900 pg/ml of 25B-NBOMe, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Poklis
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Poklis JL, Charles J, Wolf CE, Poklis A. High-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of 2CC-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe in human serum. Biomed Chromatogr 2013; 27:1794-800. [PMID: 23893863 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.2999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 06/09/2013] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
2CC-NBOMe {4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl) methyl] ethanamine} and 25I-NBOMe {2-(4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl) methyl] ethanamine} are of a class of N-benzyl phenethylamine derivatives whose synthesis was first reported in the scientific literature in 2011. Recent reports from 'personal drug experience websites' and in the popular press indicate these drugs are the latest in a series of designer 'Bath Salt' drugs of abuse. The presented high-performance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS) method was developed for the detection and quantification of 2CC-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe in serum of intoxicated emergency department patients. The assay applies 2-(2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl) ethanamine (25H-NBOMe) as the internal standard. Samples were extracted using solid-phase extraction columns. The chromatographic separation was performed on a Luna 3 µ C8(2) 100 Å, 100 × 2.0 mm, column. Detection was accomplished by multiple-reaction monitoring via an electrospray ionization source operating in the positive ionization mode. The calibration curves were linear over the investigated concentration range, 30-2000 pg/mL, with a lower limit of detection of 10 pg/mL for both 2CC-NBOMe and 25I-NBOMe. The method proved suitable for serum clinical toxicology testing. Two severely intoxicated emergency department patients were determined to have serum concentrations of 250 and 2780 pg/mL of 25I-NBOMe using the presented method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth, University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Hill SL, Doris T, Gurung S, Katebe S, Lomas A, Dunn M, Blain P, Thomas SHL. Severe clinical toxicity associated with analytically confirmed recreational use of 25I–NBOMe: case series. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2013; 51:487-92. [DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2013.802795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Rose SR, Poklis JL, Poklis A. A case of 25I-NBOMe (25-I) intoxication: a new potent 5-HT2A agonist designer drug. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2013; 51:174-7. [PMID: 23473462 DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2013.772191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Abuse of synthetic stimulant compounds resulting in significant toxicity is being increasingly reported by poison centers. Toxicologic assessment is complicated by inconsistent manufacturing processes and limited laboratory testing. We describe a case of self-reported exposure to 25-I (25I-NBOMe), a novel phenethylamine derivative, with subsequent quantification in serum. CASE DETAILS An 18-year-old male presented to the emergency department (ED) with severe agitation and hallucinations after jumping out of a moving car. He was tachycardiac (150-160 bpm) and hypertensive (150-170 mm Hg systolic and 110 mg Hg diastolic), and required physical restraints and treatment with intravenous lorazepam administration. His symptoms gradually improved and vital signs returned to normal over 48 h, though he continued to have episodes of aggressiveness. An assay was developed by our analytical toxicology laboratory for 25-I, and serum obtained during ED evaluation and treatment was found to contain 0.76 ng/ml of 25-I. Case discussion. For 25I-NBOMe, 25-I is a common abbreviation for 25I-NBOMe, which is a (n-benzyl) phenethylamine in the 2C "family."Initially synthesized for research, cases of self-reported use of 25-I have recently appeared in the literature, some of which contain qualitative urine confirmation. There are no commercially available quantitative assays, and no previous reports have published serum concentrations. 25-I is a potent new synthetic drug with apparent significant behavioral toxicity that can be detected and quantified in serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Rutherfoord Rose
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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Yang J, Dong J, Lü X, Zhang Q, Ding W, Shi X. Ethylenediamine: A Highly Effective Catalyst for One-Pot Synthesis of Aryl Nitroalkenes via Henry Reaction and Dehydration. CHINESE J CHEM 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/cjoc.201201094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Akselsen ØW, Hansen TV. ortho-Formylation of estrogens. Synthesis of the anti-cancer agent 2-methoxyestradiol. Tetrahedron 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2011.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Radiosynthesis and in vivo evaluation of a series of substituted 11C-phenethylamines as 5-HT2A agonist PET tracers. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2010; 38:681-93. [DOI: 10.1007/s00259-010-1686-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Ettrup A, Palner M, Gillings N, Santini MA, Hansen M, Kornum BR, Rasmussen LK, Någren K, Madsen J, Begtrup M, Knudsen GM. Radiosynthesis and Evaluation of 11C-CIMBI-5 as a 5-HT2A Receptor Agonist Radioligand for PET. J Nucl Med 2010; 51:1763-70. [DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.109.074021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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