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Palamar JJ. Tusi: a new ketamine concoction complicating the drug landscape. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2023; 49:546-550. [PMID: 37162319 PMCID: PMC10636235 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2023.2207716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
A drug concoction called tusi has emerged in Latin America and in Europe and is now beginning to acquire popularity in the United States. "Tusi" is a phonetic translation of "2C," a series of psychedelic phenethylamines. The concoction is also sometimes referred to as "pink cocaine" as it typically comes in the form of pink powder. However, despite its name, the concoction rarely contains 2C series drugs. Multiple drug checking studies have found that the majority of tusi samples contain ketamine, often combined with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), methamphetamine, cocaine, opioids, and/or new psychoactive substances. The tusi phenomenon complicates the drug landscape because it has the potential to confuse both people who use it and researchers alike. People using may think the drug is 2C/2C-B, and they may also be unaware that the concoction tends to consist of ketamine and a wide variety of other drugs. Unintentional exposure to its contents can lead to increased risk of adverse effects. The tusi phenomenon also has the potential to complicate drug research as unknown exposure to drugs like ketamine and MDMA will lead to underreporting of use. A combination of self-report and toxicological testing may be needed to inform the most accurate estimates of use. Both researchers and people at risk for use need to be informed about this new concoction. Drug researchers need to be cognizant about the way they query use, and people at risk for using need to be educated about the possible contents of tusi and associated dangers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Palamar
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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2
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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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3
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Martínez L, La Maida N, Papaseit E, Pérez-Mañá C, Poyatos L, Pellegrini M, Pichini S, Ventura M, Galindo L, Busardò FP, Farré M. Acute Pharmacological Effects and Oral Fluid Concentrations of the Synthetic Cannabinoids JWH-122 and JWH-210 in Humans After Self-Administration: An Observational Study. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:705643. [PMID: 34489699 PMCID: PMC8417402 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.705643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a group of new psychoactive drugs used recreationally with potential health risks. They are monitored by the EU Early Warning System since 2010 due to severe adverse effects on consumers. JWH-122 and JWH-210 are naphthoylindole SCs and potent cannabinoid receptor CB1 and CB2 agonists. Information about the effects of SCs usually is available from intoxication cases and surveys, and few studies on humans after controlled administration or observational/naturalistic studies using standardized measures of cardiovascular and subjective effects are available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute pharmacological effects of JWH-122 and JWH-210 recreational consumption in a 4 h observational study and assess their disposition in oral fluid (OF). Sixteen volunteers self-administered 1 mg dose of JWH-122 (n = 8) or 2.25 mg mean dose of JWH-210 (range 2–3 mg, n = 8) by inhalation (smoking). Physiological parameters including blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), heart rate (HR), and cutaneous temperature were measured. A set of visual analog scales, the 49-item short-form version of the Addiction Research Center Inventory (ARCI), and the Evaluation of the Subjective Effects of Substances with Abuse Potential (VESSPA-SSE) were used for the evaluation of subjective effects. OF was collected at baseline and at 10, 20, and 40 min and 1, 2, 3, and 4 h after self-administration. Statistically significant increases in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and HR were observed after JWH-122 self-administration but not after JWH-210 self-administration. JWH-210 self-administration produced significant changes in subjective drug effects, similar to those induced by THC (intensity, high, good effects, and hunger). The subjective effects following JWH-122 consumption were minimal. The maximal effects were mostly observed 20 min after intake. JWH-122 and JWH 210 OF concentration reached a peak 20 min after administration and could not be detected after 3 h. The results demonstrated a different pattern of effects of these two SCs. Due to the limitations of our observational study, further research with a larger sample and controlled studies are needed to better define the acute pharmacological effect and health risk profile of JWH-122 and JWH-210.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Martínez
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Barcelona, Spain.,Clinical Pharmacology Department, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nunzia La Maida
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Science and Public Health, University "Politecnica delle Marche", Ancona, Italy
| | - Esther Papaseit
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Mañá
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Lourdes Poyatos
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Manuela Pellegrini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Mireia Ventura
- Energy Control, Associació Benestar i Desenvolupament, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Liliana Galindo
- Energy Control, Associació Benestar i Desenvolupament, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge/Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Paolo Busardò
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Science and Public Health, University "Politecnica delle Marche", Ancona, Italy
| | - Magí Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
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4
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Grifell M, Mir Fuster G, Ventura Vilamala M, Galindo Guarín L, Carbón Mallol X, Hart CL, Pérez Sola V, Colom Victoriano F. Self-reported Subjective Effects of Analytically Confirmed New Psychoactive Substances Consumed by e-Psychonauts: Protocol for a Longitudinal Study Using a New Internet-Based Methodology. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e24433. [PMID: 34255715 PMCID: PMC8285746 DOI: 10.2196/24433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During the last few years, the continuous emergence of new psychoactive substances (NPS) has become an important public health challenge. The use of NPS has been rising in two different ways: buying and consuming NPS knowingly and the presence of NPS in traditional drugs as adulterants. The rise of NPS use is increasing the number of different substances in the market to an extent impossible to study with current scientific methodologies. This has caused a remarkable absence of necessary information about newer drug effects on people who use drugs, mental health professionals, and policy makers. Current scientific methodologies have failed to provide enough data in the timeframe when critical decisions must be made, being not only too slow but also too square. Last but not least, they dramatically lack the high resolution of phenomenological details. Objective This study aims to characterize a population of e-psychonauts and the subjective effects of the NPS they used during the study period using a new, internet-based, fast, and inexpensive methodology. This will allow bridging an evidence gap between online surveys, which do not provide substance confirmation, and clinical trials, which are too slow and expensive to keep up with the new substances appearing every week. Methods To cover this purpose, we designed a highly personalized, observational longitudinal study methodology. Participants will be recruited from online communities of people who use NPS, and they will be followed online by means of a continuous objective and qualitative evaluation lasting for at least 1 year. In addition, participants will send samples of the substances they intend to use during that period, so they can be analyzed and matched with the effects they report on the questionnaires. Results The research protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Hospital del Mar Research Institute on December 11, 2018. Data collection started in August 2019 and was still ongoing when the protocol was submitted (September 2020). The first data collection period of the study ended in October 2020. Data analysis began in November 2020, and it is still ongoing. The authors expect to submit the first results for publication by the end of 2021. A preliminary analysis was conducted when the manuscript was submitted and was reviewed after it was accepted in February 2021. Conclusions It is possible to conduct an institutional review board–approved study using this new methodology and collect the expected data. However, the meaning and usefulness of these data are still unknown. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/24433
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Grifell
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of psychology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Energy Control, Asociació Benestar i Desenvolupament, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction, Parc de Salut Mar, Premia De Mar, Spain
| | | | | | - Liliana Galindo Guarín
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Carl L Hart
- Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of psychology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Víctor Pérez Sola
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction, Parc de Salut Mar, Premia De Mar, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francesc Colom Victoriano
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction, Parc de Salut Mar, Premia De Mar, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain.,Departament of Basic, Evolutive and Education Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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5
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Oeri HE. Beyond ecstasy: Alternative entactogens to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine with potential applications in psychotherapy. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:512-536. [PMID: 32909493 PMCID: PMC8155739 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120920420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The last two decades have seen a revival of interest in the entactogen 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) as an adjunct to psychotherapy, particularly for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. While clinical results are highly promising, and MDMA is expected to be approved as a treatment in the near future, it is currently the only compound in its class of action that is being actively investigated as a medicine. This lack of alternatives to MDMA may prove detrimental to patients who do not respond well to the particular mechanism of action of MDMA or whose treatment calls for a modification of MDMA's effects. For instance, patients with existing cardiovascular conditions or with a prolonged history of stimulant drug use may not fit into the current model of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, and could benefit from alternative drugs. This review examines the existing literature on a host of entactogenic drugs, which may prove to be useful alternatives in the future, paying particularly close attention to any neurotoxic risks, neuropharmacological mechanism of action and entactogenic commonalities with MDMA. The substances examined derive from the 1,3-benzodioxole, cathinone, benzofuran, aminoindane, indole and amphetamine classes. Several compounds from these classes are identified as potential alternatives to MDMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Emanuel Oeri
- Hans Emanuel Oeri, University of Victoria,
3800 Finnerty Rd, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada.
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Cui M, Zhao Y, Zhang Z, Zhao Y, Han S, Wang R, Ding D, Fang X. IL-8, MSPa, MIF, FGF-9, ANG-2 and AgRP collection were identified for the diagnosis of colorectal cancer based on the support vector machine model. Cell Cycle 2021; 20:781-791. [PMID: 33779485 PMCID: PMC8098075 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2021.1903208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancer, and the early detection of CRC is essential to improve the survival rate of patients. To identify diagnostic markers for colorectal cancer (CRC) by screening differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in CRC. The DEPs were initially obtained from 12 CRC samples and 12 healthy control samples, and verification analysis was performed in another 34 CRC samples and 34 normal controls. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment with DEPs was analyzed by the R package clusterProfiler (Version 3.2.11), and the DEP-associated protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was created from the STRING database. Additionally, Support Vector Machine (SVM) model prediction and survival analyses were conducted on the key DEPs. Preliminary screening and functional analysis showed that the DEPs mainly overrepresented in pathways such as cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, chemokine signaling pathway, Rap1, Ras, and MAPK signaling pathways. The key DEPs, including AgRP, ANG-2, Dtk, EOT3, FGF-4, FGF-9, HCC-4, IL-16, IL-8, MIF, MSPa, TECK, TPO, TRAIL R3, and VEGF-D, were used to construct a custom chip. The drug-gene interaction network suggested that TPO was a key drug target. ROC curve showed the SVM diagnostic model with the DEPs IL-8, MSPa, MIF, FGF-9, ANG-2, and AgRP had better diagnostic performance with an AUC of 0.933. Survival analysis showed the expression of FGF9, TPO, TRAIL R3, Dtk, TECK and FGF4 were associated with prognosis. This study revealed the important serum proteins in the pathogenesis of CRC, which might serve as useful and noninvasive predictors for the diagnosis of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingfu Cui
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yanan Zhao
- Department of Oncology and Hematology Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zuocong Zhang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Jilin Province People’s Hospital, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Anorectal Surgery, Siping Central People’s Hospital, Jilin University, Siping, Jilin Province, China
| | - Songyun Han
- Emergency Department, Tonghua Central Hospital, Jilin University, Tonghua, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ruijie Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, Jilin Province, China
| | - Dayong Ding
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xuedong Fang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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7
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Maida NL, Papaseit E, Martínez L, Pérez-Mañá C, Poyatos L, Pellegrini M, Pichini S, Pacifici R, Ventura M, Galindo L, Busardò FP, Farré M. Acute Pharmacological Effects and Oral Fluid Biomarkers of the Synthetic Cannabinoid UR-144 and THC in Recreational Users. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:257. [PMID: 33805054 PMCID: PMC8064062 DOI: 10.3390/biology10040257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are one of the most frequent classes of new psychoactive substances monitored by the EU Early Warning System and World Health Organization. UR-144 is a SC with a relative low affinity for the CB1 receptor with respect to that for the CB2 receptor. As with other cannabinoid receptor agonists, it has been monitored by the EU Early Warning System since 2012 for severe adverse effects on consumers. Since data for UR-144 human pharmacology are very limited, an observational study was carried out to evaluate its acute pharmacological effects following its administration using a cannabis joint as term of comparison. Disposition of UR-144 and delta-9-tetrahydrocannibinol (THC) was investigated in oral fluid. Sixteen volunteers smoked a joint prepared with tobacco and 1 or 1.5 mg dose of UR-144 (n = 8) or cannabis flowering tops containing 10 or 20 mg THC (n = 8). Physiological variables including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate and cutaneous temperature were measured. A set of Visual Analog Scales (VAS), the Addiction Research Centre Inventory (ARCI)-49-item short form version and the Evaluation of the Subjective Effects of Substances with Abuse Potential (VESSPA-SSE) were administered to evaluate subjective effects. Oral fluid was collected at baseline, 10, 20, 40 min and 1, 2, 3 and 4 h after smoking, for UR-144 or THC concentration monitoring. Results showed significant statistical increases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate after both UR-144 and cannabis smoking. Both substances produced an increase in VAS related to stimulant-like and high effects, but scores were significantly higher after cannabis administration. No hallucinogenic effects were observed. Maximal oral fluid UR-144 and THC concentrations appeared at 20 and 10 min after smoking, respectively. The presence of UR-144 in oral fluid constitutes a non-invasive biomarker of SC consumption. The results of this observational study provide valuable preliminary data of the pharmacological effects of UR-144, showing a similar profile of cardiovascular effects in comparison with THC but lower intensity of subjective effects. Our results have to be confirmed by research in a larger sample to extensively clarify pharmacological effects and the health risk profile of UR-144.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzia La Maida
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Science and Public Health, University “Politecnica delle Marche” of Ancona, Via Tronto 71, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (N.L.M.); (F.P.B.)
| | - Esther Papaseit
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (E.P.); (L.M.); (C.P.-M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Lucia Martínez
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (E.P.); (L.M.); (C.P.-M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Clinical Phamacology Department, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Mañá
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (E.P.); (L.M.); (C.P.-M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Lourdes Poyatos
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (E.P.); (L.M.); (C.P.-M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Manuela Pellegrini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, V.Le Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (R.P.)
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, V.Le Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (R.P.)
| | - Roberta Pacifici
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, V.Le Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (R.P.)
| | - Mireia Ventura
- Energy Control, Associació Benestar i Desenvolupament, 08041 Barcelona, Spain; (M.V.); (L.G.)
| | - Liliana Galindo
- Energy Control, Associació Benestar i Desenvolupament, 08041 Barcelona, Spain; (M.V.); (L.G.)
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge/Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB20QQ, UK
| | - Francesco Paolo Busardò
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Science and Public Health, University “Politecnica delle Marche” of Ancona, Via Tronto 71, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (N.L.M.); (F.P.B.)
| | - Magí Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (E.P.); (L.M.); (C.P.-M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
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Acute Pharmacological Effects of Oral and Intranasal Mephedrone: An Observational Study in Humans. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14020100. [PMID: 33525579 PMCID: PMC7912650 DOI: 10.3390/ph14020100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone) is a synthetic cathinone with psychostimulant properties which remains one of the most popular new psychoactive substances (NPS). It is frequently used orally and/or intranasally. To date, no studies have evaluated the acute effects and pharmacokinetics after self-administration of mephedrone orally (ingestion) and intranasally (insufflation) in naturalistic conditions. An observational study was conducted to assess and compare the acute pharmacological effects, as well as the oral fluid (saliva) concentrations of mephedrone self-administered orally and intranasally. Ten healthy experienced drug users (4 females and 6 males) self-administered a single dose of mephedrone, orally (n = 5, 100–200 mg; mean 150 mg) or intranasally (n = 5, 50–100 mg, mean 70 mg). Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, and cutaneous temperature) were measured at baseline (0), 1, 2, and 4 h after self-administration. Each participant completed subjective effects questionnaires: A set of Visual Analogue Scales (VAS), the 49-item Addiction Research Centre Inventory (ARCI), and Evaluation of the Subjective Effects of Substances with Abuse Potential (VESSPA-SSE) at baseline, 1, 2, and 4 h after self-administration. Oral fluid and urine were collected during 4 h. Both routes of mephedrone self-administration enhanced ratings of euphoria and well-being effects and increased cardiovascular effects in humans. Although it was at times assessed that the oral route produced greater and larger effects than the intranasal one, concentrations of mephedrone in oral fluid and also the total amount of mephedrone and metabolites in urine showed that concentrations of mephedrone are considerably higher when self-administered intranasally in comparison to orally. Controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm our observational results.
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Busardò FP, Pérez-Acevedo AP, Pacifici R, Mannocchi G, Gottardi M, Papaseit E, Pérez-Mañá C, Martin S, Poyatos L, Pichini S, Farré M. Disposition of Phytocannabinoids, Their Acidic Precursors and Their Metabolites in Biological Matrices of Healthy Individuals Treated with Vaporized Medical Cannabis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14010059. [PMID: 33451073 PMCID: PMC7828520 DOI: 10.3390/ph14010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhalation by vaporization is a useful application mode for medical cannabis. In this study, we present the disposition of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), their acidic precursors, and their metabolites in serum, oral fluid, and urine together with the acute pharmacological effects in 14 healthy individuals treated with vaporized medical cannabis. THC and CBD peaked firstly in serum and then in oral fluid, with higher concentrations in the first biological matrices and consequent higher area under the curve AUCs. Acidic precursors Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) showed a similar time course profile but lower concentrations due to the fact that vaporization partly decarboxylated these compounds. All THC and CBD metabolites showed a later onset with respect to the parent compounds in the absorption phase and a slower decrease to baseline. In agreement with serum kinetics, THC-COOH-GLUC and 7-COOH-CBD were the significantly most excreted THC and CBD metabolites. The administration of vaporized medical cannabis induced prototypical effects associated with the administration of cannabis or THC in humans, with a kinetic trend overlapping that of parent compounds and metabolites in serum. The pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids, their precursors, and their metabolites in biological fluids of individuals treated with vaporized medical cannabis preparations showed a high interindividual variability as in the case of oral medical cannabis decoction and oil. Inhaled medical cannabis was absorbed into the organism earlier than decoction and oil. Cannabinoids reached higher systemic concentrations, also due to the fact that the acid precursors decarboxylated to parent cannabinoids at high temperatures, and consequently, the physiological and subjective effects occurred earlier and resulted with higher intensity. No serious adverse effects were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Paolo Busardò
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Ana Pilar Pérez-Acevedo
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (A.P.P.-A.); (E.P.); (C.P.-M.); (S.M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Roberta Pacifici
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | | | | | - Esther Papaseit
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (A.P.P.-A.); (E.P.); (C.P.-M.); (S.M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Mañá
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (A.P.P.-A.); (E.P.); (C.P.-M.); (S.M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Soraya Martin
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (A.P.P.-A.); (E.P.); (C.P.-M.); (S.M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Lourdes Poyatos
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (A.P.P.-A.); (E.P.); (C.P.-M.); (S.M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0649906545
| | - Magí Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (A.P.P.-A.); (E.P.); (C.P.-M.); (S.M.); (L.P.); (M.F.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
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10
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Fattore L, Marti M, Mostallino R, Castelli MP. Sex and Gender Differences in the Effects of Novel Psychoactive Substances. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10090606. [PMID: 32899299 PMCID: PMC7564810 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10090606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex and gender deeply affect the subjective effects and pharmaco-toxicological responses to drugs. Men are more likely than women to use almost all types of illicit drugs and to present to emergency departments for serious or fatal intoxications. However, women are just as likely as men to develop substance use disorders, and may be more susceptible to craving and relapse. Clinical and preclinical studies have shown important differences between males and females after administration of “classic” drugs of abuse (e.g., Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), morphine, cocaine). This scenario has become enormously complicated in the last decade with the overbearing appearance of the new psychoactive substances (NPS) that have emerged as alternatives to regulated drugs. To date, more than 900 NPS have been identified, and can be catalogued in different pharmacological categories including synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic stimulants (cathinones and amphetamine-like), hallucinogenic phenethylamines, synthetic opioids (fentanyls and non-fentanyls), new benzodiazepines and dissociative anesthetics (i.e., methoxetamine and phencyclidine-derivatives). This work collects the little knowledge reached so far on the effects of NPS in male and female animal and human subjects, highlighting how much sex and gender differences in the effects of NPS has yet to be studied and understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council (CNR), Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Rafaela Mostallino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy; (R.M.); (M.P.C.)
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy; (R.M.); (M.P.C.)
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Center of Excellence “Neurobiology of Addiction”, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
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11
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The Clinical Toxicology of 4-Bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B): The Severity of Poisoning After Exposure to Low to Moderate and High Doses. Ann Emerg Med 2020; 76:303-317. [PMID: 32507489 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2020.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE We studied the severity of poisoning after exposure to low to moderate and high doses of 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B). METHODS Patients for whom the Dutch Poisons Information Centre was consulted for 2C-B exposure from 2016 to 2018 were included in a prospective cohort study. Data were collected through telephone interviews with the physician or patient. Patients were categorized according to the reported 2C-B dose: low to moderate (up to 20 mg), high (greater than 20 mg), or unknown. Presence of 2C-B was analyzed in leftover drug and biological samples with liquid/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The severity of poisoning was graded with the Poisoning Severity Score. RESULTS We included 59 patients, of whom 32 could be followed up. Low to moderate 2C-B doses were reported by 9 patients (28%), high doses by 17 (53%), and unknown doses by 6 (19%). Poisoning was moderate in the majority of patients in both the low- to moderate-dose and high-dose groups. Frequently reported symptoms included mydriasis, agitation or aggression, hallucinations, confusion, anxiety, hypertension, and tachycardia. The presence of 2C-B was confirmed in 5 patients in urine (n=3) or drug samples (n=4). CONCLUSION In this study, most 2C-B poisonings resulted in moderate toxicity even at high reported doses up to 192 mg. No severe cases were observed. The clinical course was usually short-lived (up to 24 hours) and typically involved hallucinations in addition to mild somatic effects.
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12
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Luethi D, Liechti ME. Designer drugs: mechanism of action and adverse effects. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:1085-1133. [PMID: 32249347 PMCID: PMC7225206 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02693-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Psychoactive substances with chemical structures or pharmacological profiles that are similar to traditional drugs of abuse continue to emerge on the recreational drug market. Internet vendors may at least temporarily sell these so-called designer drugs without adhering to legal statutes or facing legal consequences. Overall, the mechanism of action and adverse effects of designer drugs are similar to traditional drugs of abuse. Stimulants, such as amphetamines and cathinones, primarily interact with monoamine transporters and mostly induce sympathomimetic adverse effects. Agonism at μ-opioid receptors and γ-aminobutyric acid-A (GABAA) or GABAB receptors mediates the pharmacological effects of sedatives, which may induce cardiorespiratory depression. Dissociative designer drugs primarily act as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists and pose similar health risks as the medically approved dissociative anesthetic ketamine. The cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor is thought to drive the psychoactive effects of synthetic cannabinoids, which are associated with a less desirable effect profile and more severe adverse effects compared with cannabis. Serotonergic 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A) receptors mediate alterations of perception and cognition that are induced by serotonergic psychedelics. Because of their novelty, designer drugs may remain undetected by routine drug screening, thus hampering evaluations of adverse effects. Intoxication reports suggest that several designer drugs are used concurrently, posing a high risk for severe adverse effects and even death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Luethi
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Strasse 13a, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
- Institute of Applied Physics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Schanzenstrasse 55, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Schanzenstrasse 55, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
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13
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Papaseit E, Olesti E, Pérez-Mañá C, Torrens M, Grifell M, Ventura M, Pozo OJ, de Sousa Fernandes Perna EB, Ramaekers JG, de la Torre R, Farré M. Acute Effects of 2C-E in Humans: An Observational Study. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:233. [PMID: 32256350 PMCID: PMC7093582 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
2,5-Dimethoxy-4-ethylphenethylamine (2C-E) is psychedelic phenylethylamine, with a chemical structure similar to mescaline, used as new psychoactive substance (NPS). It inhibits norepinephrine and serotonin uptake and, more relevant, acts as a partial agonist of the serotonin 2A (5-HT2 A), 2B (5-HT2 B), and (5-HT2 C) receptors. Consumers have reported that 2C-E induces mild-moderate psychedelic effects, but its pharmacology in humans, including pharmacological effects and pharmacokinetics, have not yet studied. To assess the acute effects of 2C-E on physiological and subjective effects and evaluate its pharmacokinetics, an observational study was carried-out. Ten recreational users of psychedelics self-administered a single oral dose of 2C-E (6.5, 8, 10, 15, or 25 mg). Blood pressure and heart rate were evaluated at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 h post-administration. Three rating scales were administered to evaluate subjective effects: a set of Visual Analog Scales (VAS), the 49-item short form version of the Addiction Research Centre Inventory (ARCI), and the Evaluation of the Subjective Effects of Substances with Abuse Potential (VESSPA-SSE) at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 h after self-administration. To assess 2C-E concentrations oral fluid (saliva) was collected during 6 h. 2C-E induced primarily alterations in perceptions, hallucinations, and euphoric-mood. Saliva maximal concentrations were achieved 2 h after self-administration. Administration of oral 2C-E at recreational doses produces a group of psychedelic-like effects such to 2C-B and other serotonin-acting drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Papaseit
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol-Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eulalia Olesti
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut (CEXS-UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Mañá
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol-Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Torrens
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain.,Drug Addiction Program, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Adiccions (INAD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Grifell
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain.,Drug Addiction Program, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Adiccions (INAD), Barcelona, Spain.,Energy Control, Associació Benestar i Desenvolupament, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Ventura
- Energy Control, Associació Benestar i Desenvolupament, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar J Pozo
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Johannes G Ramaekers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Rafael de la Torre
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut (CEXS-UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Magí Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol-Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
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14
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Palamar JJ, Acosta P. A qualitative descriptive analysis of effects of psychedelic phenethylamines and tryptamines. Hum Psychopharmacol 2020; 35:e2719. [PMID: 31909513 PMCID: PMC6995261 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The number of novel psychedelic phenethylamines and tryptamines has continued to increase, but little academic research has focused on the effects of these substances. We sought to determine and compare the subjective effects of various substances. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with 39 adults (75.4% male and 87.2% White) who reported experience using psychedelic phenethylamines and/or tryptamines. Participants described the effects of compounds they have used. We examined the subjective drug effects in a qualitative descriptive manner. RESULTS Participants reported on the use of 36 compounds. The majority (64.1%) reported the use of 2C series drugs, with 2C-B use being most prevalent; 38.5% reported the use of NBOMe, and 25.6% reported the use of DOx. With regard to tryptamines, 46.2% reported use, and 4-AcO-DMT was the most prevalent drug used in this class. 2C-B was often described as being more favorable than other 2C series compounds with the effects described as being comparable with MDMA and LSD. NBOMe effects were generally described in an unfavorable manner, and the effects of DOx were often described as lasting too long (12-36 hr). The effects of 4-AcO-DMT were often described as mimicking psilocybin. CONCLUSION Knowing the effects of various compounds can inform education, prevention, and harm reduction efforts regarding the use of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J. Palamar
- Department of Population HealthNew York University School of Medicine New York New York
| | - Patricia Acosta
- Department of Population HealthNew York University School of Medicine New York New York
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15
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Sáez-Briones P, Castro-Castillo V, Díaz-Véliz G, Valladares L, Barra R, Hernández A, Cassels BK. Aromatic Bromination Abolishes the Psychomotor Features and Pro-social Responses of MDMA ("Ecstasy") in Rats and Preserves Affinity for the Serotonin Transporter (SERT). Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:157. [PMID: 30873030 PMCID: PMC6403168 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The entactogen MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine, “Ecstasy”) exerts its psychotropic effects acting primarily as a substrate of the serotonin transporter (SERT) to induce a non-exocytotic release of serotonin. Nevertheless, the roles of specific positions of the aromatic ring of MDMA associated with the modulation of typical entactogenic effects, using analogs derived from the MDMA template, are still not fully understood. Among many possibilities, aromatic halogenation of the phenylalkylamine moiety may favor distribution to the brain due to increased lipophilicity, and sometimes renders psychotropic substances of high affinity for their molecular targets and high potency in humans. In the present work, a new MDMA analog brominated at C(2) of the aromatic ring (2-Br-4,5-MDMA) has been synthesized and pharmacologically characterized in vitro and in vivo. First, binding competition experiments against the SERT-blocker citalopram were carried out in human platelets and compared with MDMA. Besides, its effects on platelet aggregation were performed in platelet enriched human plasma using collagen as aggregation inductor. Second, as platelets are considered an appropriate peripheral model for estimating central serotonin availability, the functional effects of 2-Br-4,5-MDMA and MDMA on ATP release during human platelet aggregation were evaluated. The results obtained showed that 2-Br-4,5-MDMA exhibits higher affinity for SERT than MDMA and fully abolishes both platelet aggregation and ATP release, resembling the pharmacological profile of citalopram. Subsequent in vivo evaluation in rats at three dose levels showed that 2-Br-4,5-MDMA lacks all key MDMA-like behavioral responses in rats, including hyperlocomotion, enhanced active avoidance conditioning responses and increased social interaction. Taken together, the results obtained are consistent with the notion that 2-Br-4,5-MDMA should not be expected to be an MDMA-like substrate of SERT, indicating that aromatic bromination at C(2) modulates the pharmacodynamic properties of the substrate MDMA, yielding a citalopram-like compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Sáez-Briones
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Behavior, Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Vicente Castro-Castillo
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriela Díaz-Véliz
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis Valladares
- Laboratory of Hormones and Receptors, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rafael Barra
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Behavior, Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandro Hernández
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bruce K Cassels
- Chemobiodynamics Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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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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17
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Luethi D, Liechti ME. Monoamine Transporter and Receptor Interaction Profiles in Vitro Predict Reported Human Doses of Novel Psychoactive Stimulants and Psychedelics. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 21:926-931. [PMID: 29850881 PMCID: PMC6165951 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyy047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacological profiles of new psychoactive substances can be established rapidly in vitro and provide information on potential psychoactive effects in humans. The present study investigated whether specific in vitro monoamine transporter and receptor interactions can predict effective psychoactive doses in humans. METHODS We correlated previously assessed in vitro data of stimulants and psychedelics with human doses that are reported on the Internet and in books. RESULTS For stimulants, dopamine and norepinephrine transporter inhibition potency was positively correlated with human doses, whereas serotonin transporter inhibition potency was inversely correlated with human doses. Serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A) and 5-HT2C receptor affinity was significantly correlated with psychedelic doses, but 5-HT1A receptor affinity and 5-HT2A and 5-HT2B receptor activation potency were not. CONCLUSIONS The rapid assessment of in vitro pharmacological profiles of new psychoactive substances can help to predict psychoactive doses and effects in humans and facilitate the appropriate scheduling of new psychoactive substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Luethi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland,Correspondence: Matthias E. Liechti, ***, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, Schanzenstrasse 55, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland ()
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Papaseit E, Farré M, Pérez-Mañá C, Torrens M, Ventura M, Pujadas M, de la Torre R, González D. Acute Pharmacological Effects of 2C-B in Humans: An Observational Study. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:206. [PMID: 29593537 PMCID: PMC5859368 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B) is a psychedelic phenylethylamine derivative, structurally similar to mescaline. It is a serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A), 5-hydroxytryptamine-2B (5-HT2B), and 5-hydroxytryptamine-2C (5-HT2C) receptor partial agonist used recreationally as a new psychoactive substance. It has been reported that 2C-B induces mild psychedelic effects, although its acute pharmacological effects and pharmacokinetics have not yet been fully studied in humans. An observational study was conducted to assess the acute subjective and physiological effects, as well as pharmacokinetics of 2C-B. Sixteen healthy, experienced drug users self-administered an oral dose of 2C-B (10, 15, or 20 mg). Vital signs (blood pressure and heart rate) were measured at baseline 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 hours (h). Each participant completed subjective effects using three rating scales: the visual analog scale (VAS), the Addiction Research Centre Inventory (ARCI), and the Evaluation of the Subjective Effects of Substances with Abuse Potential (VESSPA-SSE) at baseline, 2–3 and 6 h after self-administration (maximum effects along 6 h), and the Hallucinogenic Rating Scale (maximum effects along 6 h). Oral fluid (saliva) was collected to assess 2C-B and cortisol concentrations during 24 h. Acute administration of 2C-B increased blood pressure and heart rate. Scores of scales related to euphoria increased (high, liking, and stimulated), and changes in perceptions (distances, colors, shapes, and lights) and different body feelings/surrounding were produced. Mild hallucinating effects were described in five subjects. Maximum concentrations of 2C-B and cortisol were reached at 1 and 3 h after self-administration, respectively. Oral 2C-B at recreational doses induces a constellation of psychedelic/psychostimulant-like effects similar to those associated with serotonin-acting drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Papaseit
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Institute for Health Science Research Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Magí Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Institute for Health Science Research Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Mañá
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Institute for Health Science Research Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Torrens
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Drug Addiction Program, Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Ventura
- Energy Control, Associació Benestar i Desenvolupament, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mitona Pujadas
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael de la Torre
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Débora González
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Luethi D, Trachsel D, Hoener MC, Liechti ME. Monoamine receptor interaction profiles of 4-thio-substituted phenethylamines (2C-T drugs). Neuropharmacology 2017; 134:141-148. [PMID: 28720478 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND 4-Thio-substituted phenethylamines (2C-T drugs) are potent psychedelics with poorly defined pharmacological properties. Because of their psychedelic effects, 2C-T drugs are sometimes sold as new psychoactive substances (NPSs). The aim of the present study was to characterize the monoamine receptor and transporter interaction profiles of a series of 2C-T drugs. METHODS We determined the binding affinities of 2C-T drugs at monoamine receptors and transporters in human cells that were transfected with the respective receptors or transporters. We also investigated the functional activation of serotonergic 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A (5-HT2A) and 5-HT2B receptors, activation of human trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), and inhibition of monoamine uptake transporters. RESULTS 2C-T drugs had high affinity for 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors (1-54 nM and 40-350 nM, respectively). With activation potencies of 1-53 nM and 44-370 nM, the drugs were potent 5-HT2A receptor and 5-HT2B receptor, respectively, partial agonists. An exception to this were the benzylthiophenethylamines, which did not potently activate the 5-HT2B receptor (EC50 > 3000 nM). Furthermore, the compounds bound to serotonergic 5-HT1A and adrenergic receptors. The compounds had high affinity for the rat TAAR1 (5-68 nM) and interacted with the mouse but not human TAAR1. The 2C-T drugs did not potently interact with monoamine transporters (Ki > 4000 nM). CONCLUSION The receptor binding profile of 2C-T drugs predicts psychedelic effects that are mediated by potent 5-HT2 receptor interactions. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Luethi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, 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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Mdege ND, Meader N, Lloyd C, Parrott S, McCambridge J. The Novel Psychoactive Substances in the UK Project: empirical and conceptual review work to produce research recommendations. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.3310/phr05040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundAlthough illegal drug use has largely been declining in the UK over the past decade, this period has witnessed the emergence of a range of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) (‘legal highs’). These are new, mostly synthetic, substances that mimic the effects of existing drugs). Despite there being many causes for concern in relation to NPS, there has been little prior study of the burden associated with their use in public health terms. Clarity is lacking on research priorities in this rapidly developing literature.ObjectivesTo inform the development of public health intervention research on NPS by reviewing existing data on their use, associated problems and potential responses to such problems.DesignA scoping review and narrative synthesis of selected bodies of evidence was undertaken to summarise and evaluate what is known about NPS use and the related harms of, and responses to, such use. Relevant literature was identified from electronic databases (covering January 2006 to June 2016 inclusive), Google (Google Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA), relevant websites and online drug forums and by contacting experts. Articles were included if they were primary studies, secondary studies involving the analysis and interpretation of primary research or discussion papers. A conceptual framework postulating an evidence-informed public health approach to NPS use in the UK was developed through a pragmatic literature review, the iterative development of concepts and finalisation in light of the results from the empirical review work. The process also involved feedback from various stakeholders. Research recommendations were developed from both strands of work.ResultsA total of 995 articles were included in the scoping review, the majority of which related to individual-level health-related adverse effects attributable to NPS use. The prevalence of lifetime NPS use varied widely between (e.g. with higher prevalence in young males) and within population subgroups. The most commonly reported adverse effects were psychiatric/other neurological, cardiovascular, renal and gastrointestinal manifestations, and there is limited evidence available on responses. In these and other respects, available evidence is at an early stage of development. Initial evidence challenges the view that NPS should be treated differently from other illicit drugs. The conceptual framework indicated that much of the evidence that would be useful to inform public health responses does not yet exist. We propose a systems-based prevention approach that develops existing responses, is multilevel and life course informed in character, and emphasises commonalities between NPS and other legal and illegal drug use. We make 20 recommendations for research, including nine key recommendations.LimitationsScoping reviews do not interrogate evidence in depth, and the disjunction between the scoping review and the conceptual framework findings is worthy of careful attention.ConclusionsKey research recommendations build on those that have previously been made and offer more evidence-based justification and detail, as previous recommendations have not yet been acted on. The case for decision-making on commissioning new research based on these recommendations is both strong and urgent.Future workThe validity of recommendations generated through this project could be enhanced via further work with research commissioners, policy-makers, researchers and the public.Study registrationThe systematic review element of this study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42016026415.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noreen D Mdege
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nick Meader
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Charlie Lloyd
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Steve Parrott
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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Stoller A, Dolder PC, Bodmer M, Hammann F, Rentsch KM, Exadaktylos AK, Liechti ME, Liakoni E. Mistaking 2C-P for 2C-B: What a Difference a Letter Makes. J Anal Toxicol 2016; 41:77-79. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkw108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Human Pharmacology of Mephedrone in Comparison with MDMA. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:2704-13. [PMID: 27206266 PMCID: PMC5026738 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2016.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone) is a novel psychoactive substance popular among drug users because it displays similar effects to MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ecstasy). Mephedrone consumption has been associated with undesirable effects and fatal intoxications. At present, there is no research available on its pharmacological effects in humans under controlled and experimental administration. This study aims to evaluate the clinical pharmacology of mephedrone and its relative abuse liability compared with MDMA. Twelve male volunteers participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover, and placebo-controlled trial. The single oral dose conditions were: mephedrone 200 mg, MDMA 100 mg, and placebo. Outcome variables included physiological, subjective, and psychomotor effects, and pharmacokinetic parameters. The protocol was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02232789). Mephedrone produced a significant increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and pupillary diameter. It elicited stimulant-like effects, euphoria, and well-being, and induced mild changes in perceptions with similar ratings to those observed after MDMA administration although effects peaked earlier and were shorter in duration. Maximal plasma concentration values for mephedrone and MDMA peaked at 1.25 h and 2.00 h, respectively. The elimination half-life for mephedrone was 2.15 h and 7.89 h for MDMA. In a similar manner to MDMA, mephedrone exhibits high abuse liability. Its earlier onset and shorter duration of effects, probably related to its short elimination half-life, could explain a more compulsive pattern of use as described by the users.
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