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Chiappini S, Vaccaro G, Mosca A, Miuli A, Stigliano G, Stefanelli G, Giovannetti G, Carullo R, d'Andrea G, Di Carlo F, Cavallotto C, Pettorruso M, Di Petta G, Corkery JM, Guirguis A, Stair JL, Martinotti G, Fazel S, Schifano F. New trends of drug abuse in custodial settings: A systematic review on the misuse of over-the-counter drugs, prescription-only-medications, and new psychoactive substances. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 162:105691. [PMID: 38733894 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105691] [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] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The article presents a systematic literature review on the use and the psychiatric implications of over-the-counter drugs (OTC), prescription-only-medications (POM), and new psychoactive substances (NPS) within custodial settings. The searches wer carried out on 2 November 2022 on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science in line with PRISMA guidelines. A total of 538 records were identified, of which 37 met the inclusion criteria. Findings showed the most prevalent NPS and OTC and POM classes reported in prisons were synthetic cannabinoids receptor agonists (SCRAs) and opioids, respectively. NPS markets were shown to be in constant evolution following the pace of legislations aimed to reduce their spread. The use of such substances heavily impacts the conditions and rehabilitation of persons in custody, with consequent physical and mental health risks. It is important to raise awareness of the use and misuse of such substances in prisons (i) from an early warning perspective for law enforcement and policy makers (ii) to prompt doctors to cautiously prescribe substances that may be misused (iii) to improve and increase access to treatment provided (iv) to add such substances to routine toxicological screening procedures (v) to improve harm reduction programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Chiappini
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9EU, UK; Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Giorgia Vaccaro
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9EU, UK
| | - Alessio Mosca
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy.
| | - Andrea Miuli
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Stigliano
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Giulia Stefanelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Giulia Giovannetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Rosalba Carullo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Giacomo d'Andrea
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Carlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Clara Cavallotto
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Mauro Pettorruso
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Gilberto Di Petta
- Department of Neuroscience Department of Mental Health, ASL Napoli 2, Napoli, Nord, Italy
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9EU, UK
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Swansea University Medical School, Grove Building, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales SA28PP, UK
| | - Jacqueline L Stair
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9EU, UK
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9EU, UK; Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Seena Fazel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, England
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9EU, UK
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Marland V, Reid R, Brandon AM, Hill K, Cruickshanks F, McKenzie C, Norman C, Nic Daéid N, Menard H. Changing trends in novel benzodiazepine use within Scottish prisons: detection, quantitation, prevalence, and modes of use. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:457-472. [PMID: 37587559 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Drug use within prisons is increasingly complex and unpredictable. Benzodiazepines are currently one of the most common drugs detected in individuals leaving Scottish prisons; however, understanding illicit benzodiazepine use within prisons and assessing the potential harm to individuals is challenging due to the lack of available analytical data on the substances circulating. Increasingly, materials, such as paper and clothing, infused with novel benzodiazepines have been identified as a smuggling route into Scottish prisons. Methods were developed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of benzodiazepines using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and applied to 495 seized samples from 11 Scottish prisons, including papers, cards, blotters, powders, tablets, and clothing. Evolution in the benzodiazepines being detected was demonstrated, with etizolam being the most prevalent throughout 2020/2021 following which flubromazepam and bromazolam detections increased. Additionally, significant changes in the smuggling methods and drug formats detected occurred over time following policy changes within prisons. These data represent the first reported widescale etizolam quantitation data and demonstrate high levels of variability across all sample types, most notably within tablets (0.34-2.33 mg per tablet). Additionally, concentration mapping of a whole seized card sample revealed the total concentration of drug present (312.5 mg) and demonstrated variability across the surface of the card (1.16-1.87 mg/cm2). These data highlight the challenges of consistent dosing for individuals and the high risks of unintentional overdose. Increased understanding of the challenge of such drug smuggling and benzodiazepine use will aid in the development of strategies to reduce supply and mitigate harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Marland
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Andrew M Brandon
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Kevin Hill
- Public Protection Unit, Scottish Prison Service, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Chiron AS, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Herve Menard
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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Kutzler J, Polettini AE, Bleicher S, Sauer C, Schultis W, Neukamm MA, Auwärter V. Synthetic cannabinoids in hair-Prevalence of use in abstinence control programs for driver's license regranting in Germany. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:518-531. [PMID: 37731292 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3578] [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] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Although the use, structural variety, and prevalence of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have steadily increased on the drug market, they are rarely analyzed in abstinence control programs for driver's license regranting. The aim of this study was to determine the SC prevalence in these programs by analyzing hair samples collected between March 2020 and March 2021 from various regions in Germany, mainly Bavaria (40%). Specimens were analyzed quantitatively for drugs of abuse and qualitatively for 107 SCs. Hair samples were screened by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and to search for unknown SC analogs, positive samples were additionally screened by liquid chromatography-high resolution time of flight mass spectrometry (LC-qTOF/MS). The analysis of 5097 hair samples resulted in 181 SC detections (3.6%), showing a wide range of 44 SCs, with up to 13 different compounds found in a single sample. The most prevalent compounds were 5F-MDMB-PICA and MDMB-4en-PINACA; furthermore, 10 new substances not initially covered by LC-MS/MS analysis were detected by LC-qTOF/MS. The SC positivity rate was comparable to cocaine (5.4%) and amphetamine (2.6%). Only in 35 cases (0.7%), SC analysis was requested by the clients, highlighting the insufficient coverage of SC consumption in the studied collective. In summary, hair sample analysis proved to be a valuable tool to monitor the use of SCs. In order to keep pace with newly emerging SC analogs, an up-to-date analytical method is essential. Prospectively, SCs should be more routinely screened in hair analysis for abstinence control to avoid cannabis substitution by SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Kutzler
- Department of Forensic Toxicology & Drug Analysis, SYNLAB MVZ Weiden GmbH, Weiden, Germany
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Postgraduate Course for Toxicology and Environmental Toxicology, Institute for Legal Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Aldo Eliano Polettini
- Department of Forensic Toxicology & Drug Analysis, SYNLAB MVZ Weiden GmbH, Weiden, Germany
- Department of Diagnostics & Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sergej Bleicher
- Department of Forensic Toxicology & Drug Analysis, SYNLAB MVZ Weiden GmbH, Weiden, Germany
| | - Christoph Sauer
- Department of Forensic Toxicology & Drug Analysis, SYNLAB MVZ Weiden GmbH, Weiden, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Schultis
- Department of Forensic Toxicology & Drug Analysis, SYNLAB MVZ Weiden GmbH, Weiden, Germany
| | - Merja A Neukamm
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Norman C, Deventer MH, Dremann O, Reid R, Van Uytfanghe K, Guillou C, Vinckier IMJ, Nic Daéid N, Krotulski A, Stove CP. In vitro cannabinoid receptor activity, metabolism, and detection in seized samples of CH-PIATA, a new indole-3-acetamide synthetic cannabinoid. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:380-391. [PMID: 37491777 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly evolving synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) market poses significant challenges for forensic scientists. Since the enactment of a generic ban in China, a variety of new compounds have emerged capable of evading the legislation by carrying new structural features. One recent example of a SCRA with new linker and head moieties is CH-PIATA (CH-PIACA, CHX-PIATA, CHX-PIACA). CH-PIATA bears an additional methylene spacer in the linker moiety between the indole core and the traditional carbonyl component of the linker. This study describes detections in 2022 of this new SCRA in the United States, Belgium, and Scottish prisons. CH-PIATA was detected once in a seized powder by Belgian customs and 12 times in Scottish prisons in infused papers or resin. The metabolites of CH-PIATA were investigated via in vitro human liver microsome (HLM) incubations and eight metabolites were identified, dominated by oxidative biotransformations. A blood sample from the United States was confirmed to contain a mixture of SCRAs including CH-PIATA via presence of the parent and at least five of the metabolites identified from HLM incubations. Furthermore, this paper evaluates the intrinsic in vitro cannabinoid 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) receptor activation potential of CH-PIATA reference material and the powder seized by Belgian customs by means of β-arrestin 2 recruitment assays. Both the reference and the seized powder showed a weak activity at both CB receptors with signs of antagonism found. Based on these results, the expected harm potential of this newly emerging substance remains limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Olivia Dremann
- College of Arts and Sciences, Arcadia University, Glenside, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Katleen Van Uytfanghe
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Guillou
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Alex Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Frederic Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Akca AA, Couchman L, Frinculescu A, Johnston A. Analysis of drug-impregnated paper samples seized in English prisons between 2018 and 2020. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 357:111991. [PMID: 38513529 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111991] [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] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) in the form of impregnated papers delivered to prisoners are of particular concern in prison settings, where they are commonly used by vaping. The purpose of this study was to create a qualitative method for identifying the various emerging NPS impregnated onto paper samples sent to prisoners. It helps to demonstrate that these findings can be used to predict drug prevalence and trends in prisons. Between 2018 and 2020, 1250 non-judicial paper samples seized from 12 English prisons were analysed to determine the NPSs being circulated. Approximately 1 cm2 paper were cut and added to 50 % (v/v) methanol in LCMS-grade water. Vortex-mixing was used to prepare extracts (30 min). Q-TOF LC/MS was used to screen the extracts. This study showed that synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) was the most common drug group detected in impregnated paper seizures in English prisons between 2018 and 2020, followed by cocaine, heroin type drugs (A) and amphetamine, ketamine type drugs (B). Male prisons had a higher prevalence of SCRAs, whereas female prisons had a higher prevalence of A drugs. Furthermore, lower security prisons were found to have a higher prevalence of B drugs, pregabalin, gabapentin type drugs (C), and abused and prescription drugs than higher security prisons which unveiled a higher prevalence of nicotine. The findings of this study have revealed new information about drug use in prisons. This study will also aid in the identification of drug smuggling routes into jails, keeping prison staff up to date with the trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asena Avci Akca
- Department of Biology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkiye; Institute of Forensic Sciences, Department of Forensic Toxicology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkiye; Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Lewis Couchman
- Analytical Services International Ltd, St. George's University of London, London, UK; Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Anca Frinculescu
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK; TICTAC Communications Ltd., St. George's University of London, London, UK.
| | - Atholl Johnston
- Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Analytical Services International Ltd, St. George's University of London, London, UK.
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Harries RL, Norman C, Reid R, Nic Daéid N, Nisbet LA. Detection of anabolic-androgenic steroids in e-cigarettes seized from prisons: A case study. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 356:111965. [PMID: 38359752 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111965] [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] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The administration of new psychoactive substances (NPS), in particular synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs), via e-cigarettes, within prison settings has been well publicized. This study provides an overview of five e-cigarette case samples seized from Scottish prisons between May 2022 and July 2023 where the anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) mestanolone and oxandrolone were identified following gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. These e-cigarette samples represented 2.9% of all samples containing e-cigarette cartridges (n = 170) and 9.4% of all samples found to contain AASs (n = 53) seized during the same time period. The AASs were detected in combination with other drugs, including cocaine, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), SCRAs and nicotine. This represents a new and novel route of administration for AASs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Harries
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Lorna A Nisbet
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.
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Lea Houston M, Morgan J, Kelso C. Narrative Review of the Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, and Toxicities of Illicit Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:92-109. [PMID: 37190813 DOI: 10.2174/1389557523666230515163107] [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] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are the most diverse class of new psychoactive substances worldwide, with approximately 300 unique SCRAs identified to date. While the use of this class of drug is not particularly prevalent, SCRAs are associated with several deaths every year due to their severe toxicity. METHODS A thorough examination of the literature identified 15 new SCRAs with a significant clinical impact between 2015 and 2021. RESULTS These 15 SCRAs have been implicated in 154 hospitalizations and 209 deaths across the US, Europe, Asia, and Australasia during this time period. CONCLUSION This narrative review provides pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and toxicologic data for SCRAs as a drug class, including an in-depth review of known pharmacological properties of 15 recently identified and emerging SCRAs for the benefit of researchers, policy makers, and clinicians who wish to be informed of developments in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Lea Houston
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jody Morgan
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Celine Kelso
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Molecular Horizons Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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Craft S, Austin A, Tooth T, Glover C, Garrett T, Blagbrough IS, Sunderland P, Pudney CR, Freeman TP. Synthetic cannabinoid use in an adult male prison in the UK. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 122:104219. [PMID: 37813081 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104219] [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] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Synthetic cannabinoids (i.e. Spice) are a major public health problem in UK prisons, however, research in this area is limited. Here we aimed to draw comparisons between people with and without experience of using synthetic cannabinoids in prison, to characterise the features of, and motivations for use within this setting and evaluate support for different treatment interventions. METHOD Questionnaires were administered to 122 people in a category-B prison for adult males in England between July 2022 and March 2023. Participants were asked questions related to their sociodemographic and custodial characteristics, use of synthetic cannabinoids (and other drugs) inside and outside of prison and psychological distress was measured via the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI-18). Those that had ever used synthetic cannabinoids in prison completed additional questions related to features of use, motivations for use and support for various interventions. RESULTS In total 46.7 % (n = 57) of participants reported use of synthetic cannabinoids in prison and this group experienced significantly greater levels of psychological distress compared to those reporting no use (mean (± standard deviation) BSI-18 scores = 23.7 (±16.7) vs 12.8 (±13.6), p < 0.001). Participants mostly reported using paper-based preparations (77.4 %) and use via e-cigarettes (75.9 %). The most strongly endorsed motivations for use included to alleviate boredom (91.1 % strongly agree/agree), to make the sentence pass faster (89.3 % strongly agree/agree) and to cope with stress (80.4 % strongly agree/agree). The interventions that received most support were strategies to better manage time and medication to manage withdrawal. CONCLUSIONS The use of synthetic cannabinoids in UK prisons typically involves the use of paper-based preparations via e-cigarettes, and use is associated with greater levels of psychological distress. Motivations for use were mostly pragmatic (e.g. to alleviate boredom or cope with stress) and interventions should prioritise increasing the time individuals spend out of cells and in meaningful activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Craft
- Addiction and Mental Health Group, Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK.
| | - Alice Austin
- Addiction and Mental Health Group, Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK
| | - Tom Tooth
- HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), London, UK
| | - Catherine Glover
- Royal College of General Practitioners Secure Environments Group, London, UK
| | - Tina Garrett
- Office of Health Improvements and Disparities (OHID), London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Tom P Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group, Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK
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Patel M, Grimsey NL, Banister SD, Finlay DB, Glass M. Evaluating signaling bias for synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists at the cannabinoid CB 2 receptor. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2023; 11:e01157. [PMID: 38018694 PMCID: PMC10685394 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.1157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid structural evolution and emergence of novel synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) in the recreational market remains a key public health concern. Despite representing one of the largest classes of new psychoactive substances, pharmacological data on new SCRAs is limited, particularly at the cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2 ). Hence, the current study aimed to characterize the molecular pharmacology of a structurally diverse panel of SCRAs at CB2 , including 4-cyano MPP-BUT7AICA, 4F-MDMB-BUTINACA, AMB-FUBINACA, JWH-018, MDMB-4en-PINACA, and XLR-11. The activity of SCRAs was assessed in a battery of in vitro assays in CB2 -expressing HEK 293 cells: G protein activation (Gαi3 and GαoB ), phosphorylation of ERK1/2, and β-arrestin 1/2 translocation. The activity profiles of the ligands were further evaluated using the operational analysis to identify ligand bias. All SCRAs activated the CB2 signaling pathways in a concentration-dependent manner, although with varying potencies and efficacies. Despite the detection of numerous instances of statistically significant bias, compound activities generally appeared only subtly distinct in comparison with the reference ligand, CP55940. In contrast, the phytocannabinoid THC exhibited an activity profile distinct from the SCRAs; most notably in the translocation of β-arrestins. These findings demonstrate that CB2 is able to accommodate a structurally diverse array of SCRAs to generate canonical agonist activity. Further research is required to elucidate whether the activation of CB2 contributes to the toxicity of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Natasha L. Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind CentreUniversity of SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - David B. Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
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Norman C, Webling K, Kyslychenko O, Reid R, Krotulski AJ, Farrell R, Deventer MH, Liu H, Connolly MJ, Guillou C, Vinckier IMJ, Logan BK, NicDaéid N, McKenzie C, Stove CP, Gréen H. Detection in seized samples, analytical characterization, and in vitro metabolism of the newly emerged 5-bromo-indazole-3-carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Drug Test Anal 2023. [PMID: 38037247 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are a diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS) and new structural scaffolds have emerged on the recreational drug market since the enactment of Chinese SCRA analog controls in 2021. This study reports the first SCRAs to be detected with a bromide at the 5 position (5'Br) on the phenyl ring of the indazole core and without a tail moiety. ADB-5'Br-INACA (ADMB-5'Br-INACA) and MDMB-5'Br-INACA were detected in seized samples from Scottish prisons, Belgian customs, and US forensic casework. The brominated analog with a tail moiety, ADB-5'Br-BUTINACA (ADMB-5'Br-BUTINACA), was also detected in Scottish prisons and US forensic casework. The metabolites of these compounds and the predicted compound MDMB-5'Br-BUTINACA were identified through incubation with primary human hepatocytes to aid in their toxicological identification. The bromide on the indazole remains intact on metabolites, allowing these compounds to be easily distinguished in toxicological samples from their non-brominated analogs. Glucuronidation was more common for tail-less analogs than their butyl tail-containing counterparts. Forensic toxicologists are advised to update their analytical methods with the characteristic ions for these compounds, as well as their anticipated urinary markers: amide hydrolysis and monoOH at tert-butyl metabolites (after β-glucuronidase treatment) for ADB-5'Br-INACA; monoOH at tert-butyl and amide hydrolysis metabolites for ADB-5'Br-BUTINACA; and ester hydrolysis metabolites with additional metabolites for MDMB-5'Br-INACA and MDMB-5'Br-BUTINACA. Toxicologists should remain vigilant to the emergence of new SCRAs with halogenation of the indazole core and tail-less analogs, which have already started to emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Kristin Webling
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Oleksandra Kyslychenko
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Alex J Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ryan Farrell
- Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | | | - Claude Guillou
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Directorate F-Health, Consumers and Reference Materials, Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Barry K Logan
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
- Toxicology Department, NMS Labs, Horsham, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Niamh NicDaéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Chiron AS, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
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11
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Gabarin A, Yarmolinsky L, Budovsky A, Khalfin B, Ben-Shabat S. Cannabis as a Source of Approved Drugs: A New Look at an Old Problem. Molecules 2023; 28:7686. [PMID: 38067416 PMCID: PMC10707504 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis plants have been used in medicine since ancient times. They are well known for their anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, anti-oxidative, anti-microbial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal activities. A growing body of evidence indicates that targeting the endocannabinoid system and various other receptors with cannabinoid compounds holds great promise for addressing multiple medical conditions. There are two distinct avenues in the development of cannabinoid-based drugs. The first involves creating treatments directly based on the components of the cannabis plant. The second involves a singular molecule strategy, in which specific phytocannabinoids or newly discovered cannabinoids with therapeutic promise are pinpointed and synthesized for future pharmaceutical development and validation. Although the therapeutic potential of cannabis is enormous, few cannabis-related approved drugs exist, and this avenue warrants further investigation. With this in mind, we review here the medicinal properties of cannabis, its phytochemicals, approved drugs of natural and synthetic origin, pitfalls on the way to the widespread clinical use of cannabis, and additional applications of cannabis-related products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Gabarin
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
| | - Ludmila Yarmolinsky
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
| | - Arie Budovsky
- Research and Development Authority, Barzilai University Medical Center, Ashkelon 7830604, Israel;
| | - Boris Khalfin
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
| | - Shimon Ben-Shabat
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
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12
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Cozier G, Andrews RC, Frinculescu A, Kumar R, May B, Tooth T, Collins P, Costello A, Haines TSF, Freeman TP, Blagbrough IS, Scott J, Shine T, Sutcliffe OB, Husbands SM, Leach J, Bowman RW, Pudney CR. Instant Detection of Synthetic Cannabinoids on Physical Matrices, Implemented on a Low-Cost, Ultraportable Device. Anal Chem 2023; 95:13829-13837. [PMID: 37642957 PMCID: PMC10515102 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c01844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) make up a class of novel psychoactive substances (NPS), used predominantly in prisons and homeless communities in the U.K. SCs can have severe side effects, including psychosis, stroke, and seizures, with numerous reported deaths associated with their use. The chemical diversity of SCs presents the major challenge to their detection since approaches relying on specific molecular recognition become outdated almost immediately. Ideally one would have a generic approach to detecting SCs in portable settings. The problem of SC detection is more challenging still because the majority of SCs enter the prison estate adsorbed onto physical matrices such as paper, fabric, or herb materials. That is, regardless of the detection modality used, the necessary extraction step reduces the effectiveness and ability to rapidly screen materials on-site. Herein, we demonstrate a truly instant generic test for SCs, tested against real-world drug seizures. The test is based on two advances. First, we identify a spectrally silent region in the emission spectrum of most physical matrices. Second, the finding that background signals (including from autofluorescence) can be accurately predicted is based on tracking the fraction of absorbed light from the irradiation source. Finally, we demonstrate that the intrinsic fluorescence of a large range of physical substrates can be leveraged to track the presence of other drugs of interest, including the most recent iterations of benzodiazepines and opioids. We demonstrate the implementation of our presumptive test in a portable, pocket-sized device that will find immediate utility in prisons and law enforcement agencies around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyles
E. Cozier
- Department
of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, and Centre for Sustainable and Circular
Technologies, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Rachael C. Andrews
- Department
of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, and Centre for Sustainable and Circular
Technologies, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Anca Frinculescu
- Department
of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King’s College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, U.K.
- TICTAC
Communications Ltd., Room 1.159 Jenner Wing, St. George’s University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, U.K.
| | - Ranjeet Kumar
- Department
of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, and Centre for Sustainable and Circular
Technologies, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Benedict May
- Department
of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, and Centre for Sustainable and Circular
Technologies, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Tom Tooth
- HMP
Bristol, 19 Cambridge
Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 8PS, U.K.
| | - Peter Collins
- Avon
and Somerset Police, Valley Road, Bristol BS20
8JJ, U.K.
| | - Andrew Costello
- MANchester
DRug Analysis & Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Department of Natural
Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
- Greater
Manchester Police, Openshaw Complex, Lawton Street,
Openshaw, Manchester M11 2NS, U.K.
| | - Tom S. F. Haines
- Department of Computer Science and Department of
Psychology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Tom P. Freeman
- Department of Computer Science and Department of
Psychology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Ian S. Blagbrough
- Department
of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, and Centre for Sustainable and Circular
Technologies, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Jennifer Scott
- Centre
for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical
School, Bristol BS8 2PN, U.K.
| | - Trevor Shine
- TICTAC
Communications Ltd., Room 1.159 Jenner Wing, St. George’s University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, U.K.
| | - Oliver B. Sutcliffe
- MANchester
DRug Analysis & Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Department of Natural
Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Stephen M. Husbands
- Department
of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, and Centre for Sustainable and Circular
Technologies, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Jonathan Leach
- Institute
of Chemical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K.
| | - Richard W. Bowman
- School
of Physics and Astronomy, University of
Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Christopher R. Pudney
- Department
of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, and Centre for Sustainable and Circular
Technologies, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
- Centre
for Therapeutic Innovation, University of
Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
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13
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Simon G, Kuzma M, Mayer M, Petrus K, Tóth D. Fatal Overdose with the Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists MDMB-4en-PINACA and 4F-ABUTINACA: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. TOXICS 2023; 11:673. [PMID: 37624178 PMCID: PMC10458319 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
A case of a 26-year-old male who died from consuming synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists MDMB-4en-PINACA and 4F-ABUTINACA is reported. MDMB-4en-PINACA and 4F-ABUTINACA are potent synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs). This is the first detailed reporting of MDMB-4-en-PINACA and 4F-ABUTINACA associated fatality, which can help the routine forensic work. The scientific literature on the symptoms associated with these substances are evaluated, along with the pharmacological properties and possible mechanism of death. A forensic autopsy was performed according to Recommendation No. R (99)3 of the Council of Europe on medico-legal autopsies. Histological samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE). Complement component C9 immunohistochemistry was applied to all heart samples. Toxicological analyses were carried out by supercritical fluid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (SFC-MS/MS) and headspace gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (HS-GC-FID). The literature was reviewed to identify reported cases of MDMB-4en-PINACA and 4F-ABUTINACA use. Autopsy findings included brain edema, internal congestion, petechial bleeding, pleural ecchymoses, and blood fluidity. Toxicological analyses determined 7.2 ng/mL of MDMB-4en-PINACA and 9.1 ng/mL of 4F-ABUTINACA in the peripheral blood. MDMB-4en-PINACA and 4F-ABUTINACA are strong, potentially lethal SCRA, and their exact effects and outcome are unpredictable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Simon
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (M.M.); (K.P.); (D.T.)
| | - Mónika Kuzma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (M.M.); (K.P.); (D.T.)
| | - Mátyás Mayer
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (M.M.); (K.P.); (D.T.)
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Karola Petrus
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (M.M.); (K.P.); (D.T.)
| | - Dénes Tóth
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (M.M.); (K.P.); (D.T.)
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14
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Norman C, Marland V, McKenzie C, Ménard H, Nic Daéid N. Evaluation of fentanyl immunoassay test strips for rapid in-situ detection of fentanyl and fentanyl analogs in seized samples and alternative matrices. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 118:104102. [PMID: 37343365 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104102] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ion mobility spectrometry is used for the rapid detection of drugs at points of security but are unable to differentiate some drugs leading to the instrument alarming for a drug not present in the sample. This can be particularly problematic for samples that alarm for fentanyl. In this study, fentanyl immunoassay strips were evaluated for use as a secondary test for fentanyl, including for the testing of alternative matrices, such as powders, e-liquids, and infused papers and textiles. METHODS The limit of detection of fentanyl immunoassay strips was examined along with their selectivity to 18 fentanyl analogsand 72 other drugs and cutting agents. The effectiveness of the test strips at the detection of fentanyl in the presence of other drugs was examined by testing a series of concentrations of fentanyl in solution in combination with other drugs. The testing of alternative matrices was explored with laboratory prepared samples through sampling with cotton buds and extraction in water. RESULTS The fentanyl immunoassay strips detected fentanyl at concentrations of 45 ng/mL and reacted with 16 of 18 tested fentanyl analogs with carfentanil and norfentanyl being the only analogs to not react. There was no reactivity with other drugs or cutting agents. The effectiveness of the fentanyl test strips was not reduced when fentanyl was mixed with other drugs. Fentanyl was successfully detected with high sensitivity in all alternative matrices. CONCLUSION The fentanyl immunoassay strips were found to be an effective secondary test for fentanyl and at least 16 fentanyl analogs in seized drug samples, including when mixed with other drugs. The effectiveness of the sampling methods for alternative matrices should be further evaluated using fentanyl and fentanyl analog casework samples. The use of this method by law enforcement and other agencies should be examined to assess its effectiveness and ease of use in operational settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.
| | - Victoria Marland
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK; Chiron AS, Stiklestadveien 1, 7041 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Hervé Ménard
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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15
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Deuchar R, Densley J. Exploring the Intersection of Drug Addiction and Mental Ill-Health in Scottish Prisons: A Qualitative Study of Incarcerated Men. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/00220426231161282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
This article presents insights from small-scale qualitative research exploring the intertwining nature of drug addiction and mental ill-health among men in Scottish prisons. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 men in two Scottish prisons. The men’s narratives suggested that increased tension in prison halls had stimulated a huge surge in the use of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), in turn increasing and deepening existing mental ill-health and violence. They believed health care in the prisons to be of low quality, and that methadone was prescribed as a mechanism for social control. Implications for future policy, practice and research are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Deuchar
- School of Education and Social Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, UK
| | - James Densley
- School of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice, Metropolitan State University, Saint Paul, MN, USA
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16
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Deventer MH, Norman C, Reid R, McKenzie C, Nic Daéid N, Stove CP. In vitro characterization of the pyrazole-carrying synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist 5F-3,5-AB-PFUPPYCA and its structural analogs. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 343:111565. [PMID: 36640535 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111565] [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: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) market is undergoing important changes since the enactment of the 2021 class-wide generic SCRA ban in China, one of the most important source countries for new psychoactive substances (NPS). Recently, various compounds with new structural features, synthesized to bypass this legislation, have entered the recreational drug market. Certain monocyclic pyrazole-carrying "FUPPYCA" SCRAs have been sporadically detected since 2015 without gaining further popularity. However, as evidenced by their recent detection in Scottish prisons, 5F-3,5-AB-PFUPPYCA and 3,5-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA have re-emerged, potentially triggered by the new legislative ban. The aim of this study was to characterize the in vitro intrinsic CB1 and CB2 receptor activation potential of 5F-3,5-AB-PFUPPYCA and 3,5-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA, as well as 4 analogs (5F-3,5-ADB-PFUPPYCA, 3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA, 5,3-AB-CHMFUPPYCA and 5,3-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA) using live cell β-arrestin 2 recruitment assays. Most analogs were essentially inactive at either CB1 or CB2, with only 3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA, 5,3-AB-CHMFUPPYCA and 5,3-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA showing a limited activation potential at CB1. Furthermore, the importance of the position of the tail structure was demonstrated, with 5,3 regioisomers being more active than their 3,5 analogs. Moreover, all compounds exhibited antagonistic behavior at both receptors, which may be associated with their structural resemblance to cannabinoid antagonists and inverse agonists. Although the 3,5 regioisomers of these "FUPPYCA" SCRAs circumvent the Chinese ban, it is unlikely that these SCRAs will pose a major threat to public health, given the lack of pronounced CB receptor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK; Chiron AS, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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17
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Acute toxic effects of new synthetic cannabinoid on brain: Neurobehavioral and Histological: Preclinical studies. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 370:110306. [PMID: 36528081 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The psychoactive effects of new synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), MDMB-4en-PINACA, are being marketed as a blend of herbs and spices. This study aims to determine the behavioral, neurochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical alterations associated with the acute toxicity of MDMB-4en-PINACA compounds. METHODS Adult male albino rats were administered various toxic doses of the drug (1.5, 3, and 6 mg/kg), and behavioral studies were conducted 2 and 24 h later; animals were then sacrificed. Histopathological and neurochemical examinations were performed. Two hours after intraperitoneal. RESULTS Intraperitoneal injection of MDMB-4en-PINACA, horizontal movement, the number of stops, and mobility ratio were significantly impaired, along with coordination and balance. In addition, it led to a decline in spatial learning and memory, and neurotransmitter concentrations decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Further examination of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus histopathology revealed pathological degeneration of small pyramidal cells. CONCLUSION Thus, these findings revealed that MDMB-4en-PINACA interferes with hippocampal function and impairs cognitive performance, highlighting the cognitive risk associated with SC abuse.
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18
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Seywright A, Irvine AFD, McKeown DA, Wylie FM, Torrance HJ. Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists in Postmortem Casework in Scotland. J Anal Toxicol 2023; 46:1066-1072. [PMID: 34994788 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) have been a concern to forensic toxicologists since their emergence as drugs of abuse in the mid-late 2000s. The extent of their use in Scotland appears to be low especially when compared to other drug groups such as opioids and benzodiazepines. There is a concern, however, that the use is widespread in prison populations in particular. In this work, samples of blood and urine collected during routine postmortem examination between April 2017 and March 2019 were subjected to analysis of SCRA compounds. Circumstantial and demographic information was collected on positive cases to build up a body of evidence for where SCRAs may be most likely to contribute to the cause of death. Thirteen out of 133 cases (10%) tested were positive for one or more compound in one or more matrix. Overall, the detection of 5F-MDMB-PINACA or its O-desmethyl acid metabolite was most common, followed by the metabolite shared by AB-FUBINACA and MMB-FUBINACA. SCRA-positive cases were predominantly males (92%), and the age range of all decedents was 21-49 years old (median 36 years). The majority of cases were certified as drug-related deaths (DRDs, 38%), natural/medical (31%) or suicide (23%), and two of the DRDs mentioned SCRAs specifically in the cause of death. The concentrations of SCRAs detected did not seem to be as important to the determination of the cause of death as their mere presence, but quantitative results were reported (where possible) in order to build up a body of evidence for SCRA concentrations in different case types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Seywright
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Science, University of Glasgow, Joseph Black Building, University Place, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Alexander F D Irvine
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Science, University of Glasgow, Joseph Black Building, University Place, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Denise A McKeown
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Science, University of Glasgow, Joseph Black Building, University Place, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Fiona M Wylie
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Science, University of Glasgow, Joseph Black Building, University Place, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Hazel J Torrance
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Science, University of Glasgow, Joseph Black Building, University Place, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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19
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Craft S, Dunn M, Vidler D, Officer J, Blagbrough IS, Pudney CR, Henderson G, Abouzeid A, Dargan PI, Eddleston M, Cooper J, Hill SL, Roper C, Freeman TP, Thomas SHL. Trends in hospital presentations following analytically confirmed synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist exposure before and after implementation of the 2016 UK Psychoactive Substances Act. Addiction 2022; 117:2899-2906. [PMID: 35665553 PMCID: PMC9796520 DOI: 10.1111/add.15967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The United Kingdom (UK) Psychoactive Substances Act (PSA), implemented on the 26th May 2016, made the production, supply and sale of all non-exempted psychoactive substances illegal. The aim of this study was to measure trends in hospital presentations for severe toxicity following analytically confirmed synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) exposure before and after implementation of the PSA. DESIGN Observational study. SETTING Thirty-four hospitals across the UK participating in the Identification of Novel Psychoactive Substances (IONA) study. PARTICIPANTS A total of 627 (79.9% male) consenting individuals who presented to participating hospitals between July 2015 and December 2019 with severe acute toxicity and suspected novel psychoactive substances exposure. MEASUREMENTS Toxicological analyses of patient samples were conducted using liquid-chromatography tandem mass-spectrometry. Time-series analysis was conducted on the monthly number of patients with and without analytically confirmed SCRA exposure using Poisson segmented regression. FINDINGS SCRAs were detected in 35.7% (n = 224) of patients. After adjusting for seasonality and the number of active sites, models showed no clear evidence of an upward or downward trend in the number of SCRA exposure cases in the period before (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.12; 95% CI, 0.99-1.26; P = 0.068) or after (IRR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.94-1.01; P = 0.202) the implementation of the PSA. There was also no clear evidence of an upward or downward trend in non-SCRA exposure cases before (IRR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.98-1.27; P = 0.105) or after (IRR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.98-1.04; P = 0.478) implementation of the PSA. CONCLUSIONS There is no clear evidence of an upward or downward trend in the number of patients presenting to UK hospitals with severe acute toxicity following analytically confirmed synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist exposure since the implementation of the Psychoactive Substances Act.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Craft
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of PsychologyUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Michael Dunn
- Translational and Clinical Research InstituteNewcastle UniversityNewcastleUK
| | - Dan Vidler
- Translational and Clinical Research InstituteNewcastle UniversityNewcastleUK
| | - Jane Officer
- Scottish Police Authority Forensic ServicesEdinburghUK
| | | | | | - Graeme Henderson
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and NeuroscienceUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Ahmed Abouzeid
- Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustBlackpoolBlackpoolUK
| | | | | | | | - Simon L. Hill
- Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria InfirmaryNewcastleUK
| | - Clair Roper
- Translational and Clinical Research InstituteNewcastle UniversityNewcastleUK
| | - Tom P. Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of PsychologyUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Simon H. L. Thomas
- Translational and Clinical Research InstituteNewcastle UniversityNewcastleUK
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20
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Giorgetti A, Brunetti P, Pelotti S, Auwärter V. Detection of AP-237 and synthetic cannabinoids on an infused letter sent to a German prisoner. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1779-1784. [PMID: 35918775 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3351] [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: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In the past years, new psychoactive substances (NPS) started circulating in prisons, leading to health risks and challenges for the criminal justice system. Seizures of papers and cards impregnated with synthetic cannabinoid (SCs) have been reported. In November 2021, a letter suspected to be drug-infused was sent from a German prison to this laboratory. Toxicological analyses were performed by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for drug screening and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) as well as high-performance (HP) LC with diode-array detection (DAD) for semi-quantification of the compounds. The novel synthetic opioid (NSO) AP-237 was detected on the letter, with an estimated concentration of 1.2 μg/cm2 , together with the SCs MDMB-4en-PINACA (77 μg/cm2 ) and 5F-ADB (6.5 μg/cm2 ). To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first time an NSO was detected on a drug-infused paper seized in a prison. Highly potent NSOs could easily be dissolved in organic solvents to produce impregnated papers and textiles, and this might represent a serious threat to the health of people in prison. Given the inhomogeneity in drug concentrations, health risks might in particular arise from the consumption of highly concentrated areas of the paper-so-called "hot spots"-especially when highly potent NSOs are used for infusion. Laboratories engaged in analyzing such impregnated papers should be aware of the potential presence of NSOs and adapt the respective methods accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Giorgetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Pietro Brunetti
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.,Unit of Forensic Toxicology, Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Susi Pelotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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21
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Malaca S, Busardò FP, Nittari G, Sirignano A, Ricci G. Fourth Generation of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists: A Review on the Latest Insights. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:2603-2617. [PMID: 34781870 DOI: 10.2174/1381612827666211115170521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past few years, an emerging number of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) entered the illicit market. NPSs are designed to resemble the effects of classical drugs of abuse, reinforcing their effects and duration. Among the most abused NPS, synthetic cannabinoids are cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) that mimic the effect of the main psychotropic phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). METHODS We herein reviewed the international literature to provide available information on the newest SCRAs generation. RESULTS Compared to the previous SCRAs generations, the structures of the last generation result in increased affinity for and efficacy at cannabinoid CB1 receptors, which are thought to be mainly responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC and its analogues. Accordingly, these more potent cannabimimetic effects may increase the number of adverse reactions such as neurological disorders (e.g., psychosis, agitation, irritability, paranoia, confusion, and anxiety), psychiatric episodes (e.g., hallucinations, delusions, self-harm), other physical conditions (e.g., tachycardia, hypertension, arrhythmia, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever) and deaths. In the last decade, more than a hundred SCRAs from different chemical classes emerged on the illicit web market. SCRAs have been thoroughly studied: they were physico-chemically characterized, and pharmaco-toxicological characteristics were investigated. The last SCRAs generations include increasingly potent and toxic compounds, posing a potential health threat to consumers. CONCLUSION From November 2017 to February 2021, at least 20 new "fourth-generation" SCRAs were formally reported to international drug agencies. Our understanding of the neurotoxicity of these compounds is still limited due to the lack of global data, but their potency and their toxicity are likely higher than those of the previous generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Malaca
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, University "Politecnica delle Marche" of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco P Busardò
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, University "Politecnica delle Marche" of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
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22
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Yoganathan P, Claridge H, Chester L, Englund A, Kalk NJ, Copeland CS. Synthetic Cannabinoid-Related Deaths in England, 2012-2019. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:516-525. [PMID: 33998886 PMCID: PMC9418359 DOI: 10.1089/can.2020.0161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To identify drug-related death trends associated with synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) reported to the National Programme on Substance Abuse Deaths (NPSAD) from England. Design: Case reports from NPSAD (England) where a SCRA was detected in post-mortem tissue(s) and/or implicated in the death were extracted, analyzed, and compared against non-SCRA-related deaths that occurred over the same time period (2012-2019). Findings: One hundred sixty-five death SCRA-related reports were extracted, with 18 different SCRAs detected. Following the first death in 2012, a subsequent sharp increase in reporting is evident. Acute SCRA use was the underlying cause of death in the majority of cases (75.8%) with cardiorespiratory complications the most frequently cited underlying physiological cause (13.4%). SCRA users were predominantly found dead (68.6%), with a large proportion of those witnessed becoming unresponsive described as suddenly collapsing (81.6%). Psychoactive polydrug use was detected in 90.3% of cases, with alcohol the most commonly co-detected (50.3%), followed by opioids (42.2%), benzodiazepines/Z-drugs (32.1%), stimulants (32.1%, [28.5% cocaine]), and cannabis (24.8%). Compared to all non-SCRA-related NPSAD deaths occurring over the same time period, SCRA-related decedents were more predominantly male (90.3% vs. 72.0%; p<0.01), and lived in more deprived areas (p<0.01). While a comparatively significant proportion of decedents were homeless (19.4% vs. 4.1%), living in a hostel (13.3% vs. 2.3%) or in prison (4.9% vs. 0.2%) at time of death (all p<0.01), the greatest majority of SCRA-related decedents were living in private residential accommodations (57.6%). Conclusions: This is the largest dataset regarding SCRA-related mortalities reported to date. Reporting of SCRA-related deaths in England have increased considerably, with polydrug use a specific concern. Lack of effective deterrents to SCRA use under current UK legislation, compounded by limited knowledge regarding the physiological impacts of SCRA consumption and their interaction with other co-administered substances are contributory factors to the occurrence of SCRA-related mortalities in an increasingly deprived demographic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pruntha Yoganathan
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hugh Claridge
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Chester
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amir Englund
- Department of Addictions, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola J. Kalk
- Department of Addictions, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- KCH Alcohol Care Team, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline S. Copeland
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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23
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Abstract
Newly emerging synthetic cannabinoid compounds continue to be found in the designer drug market. They are often targeted as a 'legal high' alternative to traditional cannabinoids via 'darknet' markets and their increased potency and efficacy are becoming a growing concern internationally. The purpose of this study was to determine whether 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-AEB, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA exhibited similar behavioral effects as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Locomotor activity was assessed in an open-field assay using Swiss-Webster mice. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to discriminate between intraperitoneal injections of Δ9-THC (3 mg/kg) and vehicle. Following successful training, substitution tests for 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-AEB, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA were conducted. All of the test compounds decreased locomotor activity. 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA (ED50 = 0.26 mg/kg), 4F-MDMB-BINACA (ED50 = 0.019 mg/kg), 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA (ED50 = 0.13 mg/kg) and EMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.13 mg/kg) each fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of the training dose of Δ9-THC, whereas 5F-AEB produced only a maximum of 67% drug-appropriate responding at 0.5 mg/kg. Higher doses produced piloerection, exophthalmos and convulsions. 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA are likely to produce similar subjective effects in humans as those produced by abused synthetic cannabinoids, and may therefore share similar abuse liability. In contrast, 5F-AEB may have a reduced abuse liability given its weaker THC-like discriminative stimulus effects but maybe more dangerous due to the adverse effects observed at doses needed to produce discriminative stimulus effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Gatch
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience Discovery, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
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24
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Vaccaro G, Massariol A, Guirguis A, Kirton SB, Stair JL. NPS detection in Prison: a Systematic Literature Review of Use, Drug Form, and Analytical Approaches. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1350-1367. [PMID: 35355411 PMCID: PMC9545023 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a systematic literature review on the detection of new psychoactive substances (NPS) in prison settings. It includes the most frequently reported NPS classes, the routes and forms used for smuggling, and the methods employed to analyze biological and non-biological samples. The search was carried out using MEDLINE (EBSCO), Scopus (ELSEVIER), PubMed (NCBI) and Web of Science (Clarivate) databases, along with reports from the grey literature in line with the PRISMA-S guidelines. A total of 2708 records were identified, of which 50 met the inclusion criteria. Findings showed the most prevalent NPS class reported in prison was synthetic cannabinoids (SCs). The most frequently reported SCs in non-biological samples were 4F-MDMB-BINACA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, and 5F-ADB. These were smuggled mainly through the postal services deposited on paper or herbal matrices. Concentrations of SCs detected on seized paper ranged between 0.05-1.17 mg/cm2 . The SCs most frequently reported in biological specimens (i.e., urine, blood, saliva, and wastewater) were 5F-MDMB-PICA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA and MDMB-4en-PINACA. Concentrations of SCs reported in femoral blood and serum were 0.12-0.48 ng/ml and 34-17 ng/ml, respectively. Hyphenated techniques were predominantly employed and generally successful for the detection of NPS in biological (i.e., LC-HRMS/MS) and non-biological samples (i.e., LC-HRMS/MS and GC-MS. The on-site technique IMS showed promise for detecting SCs in various forms, however immunoassays were not recommended. Future work should focus on accurate in-field detection of SCs deposited on paper and in urine and saliva to improve real-time decision-making, as well as wastewater and air monitoring for overall drug use trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Vaccaro
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Anna Massariol
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Swansea University Medical School, The Grove, Singleton Campus, Swansea, UK
| | - Stewart B Kirton
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Jacqueline L Stair
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
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25
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Pulver B, Schönberger T, Weigel D, Köck M, Eschenlohr Y, Lucas T, Podlesnik N, Opatz T, Dreiseitel W, Pütz M, Schäper J, Jacobsen-Bauer A, Auwärter V, Westphal F. Structure elucidation of the novel synthetic cannabinoid Cumyl-tosyl-indazole-3-carboxamide (Cumyl-TsINACA) found in illicit products in Germany. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1387-1406. [PMID: 35338591 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
New chemical moieties continue to appear in synthetic cannabimimetics (SC), the largest group of new psychoactive substances in the EU. We describe the first comprehensive characterisation of the novel SC Cumyl-TsINACA (N-(2-phenylpropan-2-yl)-1-tosyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide) from seized case samples. Structure elucidation was performed within the EU-project ADEBAR plus to facilitate confident identification by other researchers and practitioners worldwide. Characteristic MS fragmentations include the cleavage of the sulfonamide bond (S-N), the aryl sulfone bond (C-S) and the elimination rearrangement of SO2 in the side chain. Cumyl-TsINACA is a full receptor agonist at hCB1 (Emax = 228%) with very weak binding affinity (Ki = 292 nm) and low functional activity (EC50 = 31 μm). Thermal degradation of Cumyl-TsINACA was observed under GC conditions. The degree to which the tosyl side chain is cleaved due to pyrolysis primarily depends on solvent, the use of glass wool in the liner, and injector temperature. The determination of the constitution by NMR spectroscopy was ambiguous due to the high number of neighbouring, non-proton-bearing atoms. Therefore, other possible structures compatible with the NMR correlations were generated using the WebCocon software. The unambiguous structural evidence was finally obtained by spectra comparison after the synthesis of Cumyl-TsINACA. The low thermal stability, as well as the low affinity and potency, render this compound unfavourable for the use as a psychoactive substance. Thus, we do not expect widespread adoption of this SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Pulver
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Forensic Science Institute, Kiel, Germany
| | - Torsten Schönberger
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Diana Weigel
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Matthias Köck
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Yvonne Eschenlohr
- Bavarian State Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, München, Germany
| | - Tobias Lucas
- Department of Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Nika Podlesnik
- Department of Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Till Opatz
- Department of Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Dreiseitel
- Hessian State Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Michael Pütz
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Jan Schäper
- Department of Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Folker Westphal
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Forensic Science Institute, Kiel, Germany
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26
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Glatfelter GC, Partilla JS, Baumann MH. Structure-activity relationships for 5F-MDMB-PICA and its 5F-pentylindole analogs to induce cannabinoid-like effects in mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:924-932. [PMID: 34802041 PMCID: PMC8882184 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01227-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are an evolving class of new psychoactive substances found on recreational drug markets worldwide. The indole-containing compound, 5F-MDMB-PICA, is a popular SCRA associated with serious medical consequences, including overdose and hospitalizations. In vitro studies reveal that 5F-MDMB-PICA is a potent agonist at cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1), but little information exists regarding in vivo pharmacology of the drug. To this end, we examined the in vitro and in vivo cannabinoid-like effects produced by 5F-MDMB-PICA and related 5F-pentylindole analogs with differing composition of the head group moiety (i.e., 5F-NNEI, 5F-SDB-006, 5F-CUMYL-PICA, 5F-MMB-PICA). In mouse brain membranes, 5F-MDMB-PICA and its analogs inhibited binding to [3H]rimonabant-labeled CB1 and displayed agonist actions in [35S]GTPγS functional assays. 5F-MDMB-PICA exhibited the highest CB1 affinity (Ki = 1.24 nM) and functional potency (EC50 = 1.46 nM), but head group composition markedly influenced activity in both assays. For example, the 3,3-dimethylbutanoate (5F-MDMB-PICA) and cumyl (5F-CUMYL-PICA) head groups engendered high CB1 affinity and potency, whereas a benzyl (5F-SDB-006) head group did not. In C57BL/6J mice, all 5F-pentylindole SCRAs produced dose- and time-dependent hypothermia, catalepsy, and analgesia that were reversed by rimonabant, indicating CB1 involvement. In vitro Ki and EC50 values were positively correlated with in vivo ED50 potency estimates. Our findings demonstrate that 5F-MDMB-PICA is a potent SCRA, and subtle alterations to head group composition can have profound influence on pharmacological effects at CB1. Importantly, measures of CB1 binding and efficacy in mouse brain tissue seem to accurately predict in vivo drug potency in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant C. Glatfelter
- grid.420090.f0000 0004 0533 7147Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Intramural Research Program (IRP), Baltimore, MD USA
| | - John S. Partilla
- grid.420090.f0000 0004 0533 7147Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Intramural Research Program (IRP), Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- grid.420090.f0000 0004 0533 7147Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Intramural Research Program (IRP), Baltimore, MD USA
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27
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Monti MC, Zeugin J, Koch K, Milenkovic N, Scheurer E, Mercer-Chalmers-Bender K. Adulteration of low-THC products with synthetic cannabinoids: Results from drug checking services. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1026-1039. [PMID: 34997693 PMCID: PMC9305195 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Since late 2019, low‐delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) preparations adulterated with synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have been frequently observed in Switzerland. The unawareness of users concerning the presence of SCs and the typically higher potency and toxicity of SCs, when compared with THC, can result in increased health risks. In Switzerland, low‐THC (<1%) cannabis products, except hashish, are legal. These products can act as carrier materials for SCs. In this study, cannabis samples and user self‐reports received through three drug checking services were collected and analysed, to gain deeper insight into this new phenomenon. Samples were collected from January 2020 to July 2021. Liquid chromatography coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry was used for the qualitative screening and semi‐quantification of SCs, while gas chromatography with flame ionization detector was applied for the quantification of THC and cannabidiol levels. Reported adverse effects were compared between users who consumed adulterated (SC‐group) and non‐adulterated (THC‐group) products. Of a total 94 samples, 50% contained up to three different SCs. MDMB‐4en‐PINACA was most often detected. All adulterated cannabis flowers contained ≤1% THC. Adulterated hashish also typically presented low THC‐levels (median: 0.8%). The SC‐group was associated with higher numbers of adverse events (p = 0.041). Furthermore, psychologic (p = 0.0007) and cardiologic (p = 0.020) adverse effects were more profound in the SC‐group than in the THC‐group. Drug checking services enabled the timely detection and monitoring of new and potentially dangerous trends. Furthermore, due to user‐reports, additional valuable information was gained on adverse events associated with the consumption of novel SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Carla Monti
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jill Zeugin
- Addiction Support - Region Basel (Suchthilfe Region Basel), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Konrad Koch
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Natasa Milenkovic
- Addiction Services (Abteilung Sucht), Health Department Kanton Basel-Stadt, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eva Scheurer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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28
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Tokarczyk B, Jurczyk A, Krupińska J, Adamowicz P. Fatal intoxication with new synthetic cannabinoids 5F-MDMB-PICA and 4F-MDMB-BINACA-parent compounds and metabolite identification in blood, urine and cerebrospinal fluid. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2022; 18:393-402. [PMID: 35699867 PMCID: PMC9194349 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-022-00492-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) remain one of the largest groups of new psychoactive substances. Recently, new synthetic cannabinoids 5F-MDMB-PICA and 4F-MDMB-BINACA are increasing in popularity. A 33-year-old man lost consciousness after smoking an unknown substance. A glass pipe and two lumps of substance that turned out to contain 5F-MDMB-PICA and 4F-MDMB-BINACA were found at the scene. Blood, urine and cerebrospinal fluid were collected during the examination of the body. The synthetic cannabinoids were isolated from autopsy materials by precipitation with acetonitrile and extraction with ethyl acetate. The screening and quantitative analyses were performed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time of flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q/TOF) technique was used for metabolite identification. 5F-MDMB-PICA was detected and quantified in all analysed materials, whereas 4F-MDMB-BINACA was found only in cerebrospinal fluid. The determined concentrations of 5F-MDMB-PICA were 0.9 (blood), 0.1 (urine) and 3.2 ng/mL (cerebrospinal fluid). The concentration of 4F-MDMB-BINACA in cerebrospinal fluid was 0.1 ng/mL. The main metabolites of both compounds (hydrolysis and oxidative defluorination) were found in all analysed body fluids. Cerebrospinal fluid may be important alternative material in autopsy cases. Rapid elimination of 5F-MDMB-PICA and 4F-MDMB-BINACA compounds also means that the metabolite analysis can be crucial for the investigation. Laboratories must be made aware of their presence and incorporate these SCs and their metabolites into workflows for detection and confirmation. Ester hydrolysis and oxidative defluorination products can be found in blood, urine and cerebrospinal fluid making them useful biomarkers of intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Tokarczyk
- grid.419017.a0000 0001 0701 6599Institute of Forensic Research, Westerplatte 9, 31-033 Krakow, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Jurczyk
- grid.8267.b0000 0001 2165 3025Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Sedziowska 18a, 91-304 Lodz, Poland
| | - Justyna Krupińska
- grid.8267.b0000 0001 2165 3025Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Sedziowska 18a, 91-304 Lodz, Poland
| | - Piotr Adamowicz
- Institute of Forensic Research, Westerplatte 9, 31-033, Krakow, Poland.
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Craft S, Ferris JA, Barratt MJ, Maier LJ, Lynskey MT, Winstock AR, Freeman TP. Clinical withdrawal symptom profile of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists and comparison of effects with high potency cannabis. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:1349-1357. [PMID: 34533608 PMCID: PMC9110517 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05945-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) may be used as an alternative to natural cannabis; however, they may carry a greater risk of problematic use and withdrawal. This study aimed to characterise the withdrawal symptom profile of SCRAs and compare their profile of effect with high-potency herbal cannabis. Global Drug Survey data (2015 and 2016) were used to access a clinically relevant sample of people reporting use of SCRAs >10 times in the past 12-months, a previous SCRA quit attempt, and lifetime use of high-potency herbal cannabis. Participants completed an 11-item SCRA withdrawal symptom checklist and compared SCRAs and high-potency herbal cannabis on their onset and duration of effects, speed of the development of tolerance, severity of withdrawal, and difficulty with dose titration. Participants (n = 284) reported experiencing a mean of 4.4 (95% CI: 4.1, 4.8) withdrawal symptoms after not using SCRAs for >1 day; most frequently reported were sleep issues (59.2%), irritability (55.6%), and low mood (54.2%). Withdrawal symptoms were significantly associated with frequency (>51 vs. 11-50 times per year: IRR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.16, 1.77, p = 0.005) and quantity (grams per session: IRR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.22, p = 0.001) of SCRA use. Compared to high-potency herbal cannabis, SCRAs were rated as having a faster onset and shorter duration of effects, faster development of tolerance, and more severe withdrawal (p's < 0.001). In conclusion, SCRA withdrawal symptoms are more likely to occur after greater SCRA exposure. The effects of SCRA indicate a more severe withdrawal syndrome and a greater risk of problematic use than natural cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Craft
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK. .,National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Jason A. Ferris
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Centre for Health Services Research, University of Queensland, QLD, Queensland Brisbane, Australia
| | - Monica J. Barratt
- grid.1017.70000 0001 2163 3550Social and Global Studies Centre and Digital Ethnography Research Centre, RMIT University, Victoria Melbourne, Australia ,grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales Sydney, Australia
| | - Larissa J. Maier
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Michael T. Lynskey
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Adam R. Winstock
- Global Drug Survey Ltd, London, UK ,grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tom P. Freeman
- grid.7340.00000 0001 2162 1699Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK ,grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
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30
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Gilbert N, Costello A, Ellison JR, Khan U, Knight M, Linnell MJ, Ralphs R, Mewis RE, Sutcliffe OB. Synthesis, characterisation, detection and quantification of a novel hexyl-substituted synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist: (S)-N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-hexyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (ADB-HINACA). Forensic Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2021.100354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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31
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Kronstrand R, Norman C, Vikingsson S, Biemans A, Valencia Crespo B, Edwards D, Fletcher D, Gilbert N, Persson M, Reid R, Semenova O, Al Teneiji F, Wu X, Dahlén J, NicDaéid N, Tarbah F, Sutcliffe OB, McKenzie C, Gréen H. The metabolism of the synthetic cannabinoids ADB-BUTINACA and ADB-4en-PINACA and their detection in forensic toxicology casework and infused papers seized in prisons. Drug Test Anal 2021; 14:634-652. [PMID: 34811926 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Early warning systems detect new psychoactive substances (NPS), while dedicated monitoring programs and routine drug and toxicology testing identify fluctuations in prevalence. We report the increasing prevalence of the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) ADB-BUTINACA (N-[1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl]-1-butyl-1H-indazole-3-carbox-amide). ADB-BUTINACA was first detected in a seizure in Sweden in 2019, and we report its detection in 13 routine Swedish forensic toxicology cases soon after. In January 2021, ADB-BUTINACA was detected in SCRA-infused papers seized in Scottish prisons and has rapidly increased in prevalence, being detected in 60.4% of the SCRA-infused papers tested between January and July 2021. In this work, ADB-BUTINACA was incubated with human hepatocytes (HHeps), and 21 metabolites were identified in vitro, 14 being detected in authentic case samples. The parent drug and metabolites B9 (mono-hydroxylation on the n-butyl tail) and B16 (mono-hydroxylation on the indazole ring) are recommended biomarkers in blood, while metabolites B4 (dihydrodiol formation on the indazole core), B9, and B16 are suitable biomarkers in urine. ADB-4en-PINACA (N-[1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl]-1-[pent-4-en-1-yl]-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide) was detected in Scottish prisons in December 2020, but, unlike ADB-BUTINACA, prevalence has remained low. ADB-4en-PINACA was incubated with HHeps, and 11 metabolites were identified. Metabolites E3 (dihydrodiol formed in the tail moiety) and E7 (hydroxylation on the linked/head group) are the most abundant metabolites in vitro and are suggested as urinary biomarkers. The in vitro potencies of ADB-BUTINACA (EC50 , 11.5 nM and ADB-4en-PINACA (EC50 , 11.6 nM) are similar to that of MDMB-4en-PINACA (EC50 , 4.3 nM). A third tert-leucinamide SCRA, ADB-HEXINACA was also detected in prison samples and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Kronstrand
- Department of Forensic Genetics 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
| | - Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Svante Vikingsson
- Department of Forensic Genetics 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.,RTI International, Research Triangle, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anoek Biemans
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Bryan Valencia Crespo
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Darren Edwards
- Drug Discovery Unit, Wellcome Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Daniel Fletcher
- Drug Discovery Unit, Wellcome Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.,BioAscent, Motherwell, UK
| | - Nicolas Gilbert
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Mattias Persson
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Olga Semenova
- Drug Discovery Unit, Wellcome Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Faisal Al Teneiji
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.,General Department of Forensic Science and Criminology, Toxicology Department, Dubai Police, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Xiongyu Wu
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Dahlén
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Niamh NicDaéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Fuad Tarbah
- General Department of Forensic Science and Criminology, Toxicology Department, Dubai Police, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Oliver B Sutcliffe
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.,Chiron AS, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Department of Forensic Genetics 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
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Deen AA, Claridge H, Treble RD, Hamnett HJ, Copeland CS. Deaths from novel psychoactive substances in England, Wales and Northern Ireland: Evaluating the impact of the UK psychoactive substances act 2016. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:1315-1323. [PMID: 34182812 PMCID: PMC8600590 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211026645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND 'Legal highs' began appearing in the UK in the mid-2000s. Whilst many of these substances were controlled under the 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act, novel compounds and new variants of controlled compounds were continuously being introduced to the recreational drug market. The Psychoactive Substances Act (PSA) was therefore implemented in 2016 as a blanket ban on all novel psychoactive substances (NPS). AIM To evaluate the impact of the PSA on deaths following NPS use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. METHODS Cases reported to the National Programme on Substance Abuse Deaths where death had occurred 3 years pre- or post-implementation of the PSA were extracted. Cases with NPS detected at post-mortem were analysed and compared against cases non-NPS cases. RESULTS 293 deaths with NPS detected were identified; 91 occurring before the PSA and 202 afterwards, indicating an 222.0% post-PSA increase. Contrastingly, non-NPS drug-related death case reporting increased by only 8.0%. Synthetic cannabinoid, anxiolytic/sedative and stimulant NPS were detected in the largest proportions of deaths pre-PSA; post-PSA stimulant NPS detections reduced whilst synthetic cannabinoid and anxiolytic/sedative detections increased.Post-PSA, average decedent age increased significantly (mean age pre-PSA 34.4 ± 10.8 vs post-PSA 38.3 ± 9.4), and they were significantly more likely to have been living in deprived areas (pre-PSA 50.0% vs post-PSA 65.9%). CONCLUSIONS Reporting of deaths following NPS use has risen despite introduction of the PSA. Whilst deaths amongst younger individuals and those living in more affluent areas has reduced, additional approaches to prohibition are needed to curb their persistence in deprived demographics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian A Deen
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hugh Claridge
- Population Health Research Institute,
St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Hilary J Hamnett
- School of Chemistry, University of
Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline S Copeland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,Population Health Research Institute,
St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom,Caroline S Copeland, Institute of
Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Franklin Wilkins Building,
Stamford Street, London, SE1 9 NH, United Kingdom.
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33
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Gulekci Y, Efeoglu Ozseker P, Cavus Yonar F, Daglioglu N. Comparison of methods to develop fingerprints on papers impregnated with AB-PINACA and AB-FUBINACA. J Forensic Sci 2021; 67:524-533. [PMID: 34713442 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14926] [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: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although there have been significant advances in fingerprinting techniques, studies on how these techniques affect other criminal evidence are limited. Synthetic cannabinoids (SC), which are illegal substances frequently encountered in crime scenes and are widely used worldwide, are available in various forms in the market (pill, powder, liquid, and herbal product). These synthetic cannabinoid substances have recently been introduced to places such as prisons and rehabilitation centers, primarily via an infused piece of paper. The first seizure of the paper-impregnated form of AB-PINACA and AB-FUBINACA in Turkey was observed in 2014. This study investigates the effects of fingerprint development methods on the concentrations of these SCs impregnated on paper. Therefore, eccrine and sebaceous fingerprints of volunteers were imprinted on the papers before and after they were impregnated with AB-PINACA and AB-FUBINACA. Six different fingerprint development methods were applied. Fingerprint development methods were later checked in 384 fingerprints. AB-PINACA and AB-FUBINACA infused on papers were extracted by the liquid-extraction method, and concentrations were analyzed via LC-MS/MS. After applying Thermanin, 1,2-indandione, iodine vapor, DFO, and 5-MTN fingerprint development methods, the concentration levels of AB-FUBINACA were 26.25, 19.60, 21.43, 17.76, and 17.77 ng/cm2 , while the concentration levels of AB-PINACA were 1.1, 0.98, 1.31, 1.28, and 1.22 ng/cm2 , respectively. Finally, although the best fingerprint visualization was obtained on papers that were applied the Ninhydrin method, the method failed to detect SCs on papers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yakup Gulekci
- Forensic Sciences Department, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Kütahya University of Health Sciences, Kütahya, Turkey
| | - Pınar Efeoglu Ozseker
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Fatma Cavus Yonar
- Institute of Forensic Sciences & Legal Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nebile Daglioglu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Cukurova University, Faculty of Medicine, Adana, Turkey
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Bukke VN, Archana M, Villani R, Serviddio G, Cassano T. Pharmacological and Toxicological Effects of Phytocannabinoids and Recreational Synthetic Cannabinoids: Increasing Risk of Public Health. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14100965. [PMID: 34681189 PMCID: PMC8541640 DOI: 10.3390/ph14100965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic Cannabinoids (CBs) are a novel class of psychoactive substances that have rapidly evolved around the world with the addition of diverse structural modifications to existing molecules which produce new structural analogues that can be associated with serious adverse health effects. Synthetic CBs represent the largest class of drugs detected by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) with a total of 207 substances identified from 2008 to October 2020, and 9 compounds being reported for the first time. Synthetic CBs are sprayed on natural harmless herbs with an aim to mimic the euphoric effect of Cannabis. They are sold under different brand names including Black mamba, spice, K2, Bombay Blue, etc. As these synthetic CBs act as full agonists at the CB receptors, they are much more potent than natural Cannabis and have been increasingly associated with acute to chronic intoxications and death. Due to their potential toxicity and abuse, the US government has listed some synthetic CBs under schedule 1 classification. The present review aims to provide a focused overview of the literature concerning the development of synthetic CBs, their abuse, and potential toxicological effects including renal toxicity, respiratory depression, hyperemesis syndrome, cardiovascular effects, and a range of effects on brain function.
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35
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Brown A, Mitchell D, Hunt K. Post-implementation perspectives on smokefree prison policy: a qualitative study with staff and people in custody. Eur J Public Health 2021; 32:112-118. [PMID: 34448834 PMCID: PMC8807073 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckab075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A comprehensive smokefree prison policy (SFPP) was introduced in Scottish prisons from November 2018, reflecting concern about inequalities in occupational exposures to second-hand smoke (SHS) and tobacco-related harms among people in custody (PiC). We aimed to address a gap, whereby few studies have sought to understand SFPP from the perspectives of people living and working in prisons. Methods As part of a comprehensive evaluation, focus groups and interviews with staff (n = 99) and interviews with PiC (n = 23) were conducted 6–9 months post-implementation of SFPP in Scotland. Data were analysed using the framework approach. Results Our study found that new restrictions on smoking had been widely accepted by PiC, after a period of adjustment which was less troublesome than participants had anticipated. Benefits of the SFPP for the safety and comfort of staff and PiC who were no longer exposed to SHS, and additionally for the health of PiC who were now smoking-abstinent, were widely acknowledged. Drawbacks of the SFPP, such as difficulties managing without tobacco and use of alternatives (e.g. e-cigarettes and changes in use of illegal drugs), were also reported. Contraband tobacco was not reported to be a major problem following prisons becoming smokefree. Conclusions The findings strengthen evidence that SFPPs can be implemented without causing major disruption and highlight the need for removal of tobacco to be underpinned by careful planning, partnership working and ensuring the availability of support for smokers. Experiences from Scotland may be of interest and some comfort, internationally for jurisdictions considering smoke-free rules in prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Brown
- Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Danielle Mitchell
- Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Kate Hunt
- Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
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36
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'Synthetic cannabis': A dangerous misnomer. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 98:103396. [PMID: 34343944 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The term 'synthetic cannabis' has been widely used in public discourse to refer to a group of cannabinoid receptor agonists. In this paper we detail the characteristics of these drugs, and present the case that the term is a misnomer. We describe the pharmacodynamics of these drugs, their epidemiology, mechanisms of action, physiological effects and how these differ substantially from delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). We argue that not only is the term a misnomer, but it is one with negative clinical and public health implications. Rather, the substances referred to as 'synthetic cannabis' in public discourse should instead be referred to consistently as synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs), a drug class distinct from plant-derived cannabinoids. SCRAs have greater potency and efficacy, and psychostimulant-like properties. While such terminology may be used in the scientific community, it is not widely used amongst the media, general public, people who use these drugs or may potentially do so. A new terminology has the potential to reduce the confusion and harms that result from the misnomer 'synthetic cannabis'. The constant evolution of this distinct drug class necessitates a range of distinct policy responses relating to terminology, harm reduction, epidemiology, treatment, and legal status.
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37
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Monti MC, Scheurer E, Mercer-Chalmers-Bender K. Phase I In Vitro Metabolic Profiling of the Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists CUMYL-THPINACA and ADAMANTYL-THPINACA. Metabolites 2021; 11:470. [PMID: 34436411 PMCID: PMC8398790 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11080470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) remain popular drugs of abuse. As many SCRAs are known to be mostly metabolized, in vitro phase I metabolic profiling was conducted of the two indazole-3-carboxamide SCRAs: CUMYL-THPINACA and ADAMANTYL-THPINACA. Both compounds were incubated using pooled human liver microsomes. The sample clean-up consisted of solid phase extraction, followed by analysis using liquid chromatography coupled to a high resolution mass spectrometer. In silico-assisted metabolite identification and structure elucidation with the data-mining software Compound Discoverer was applied. Overall, 28 metabolites were detected for CUMYL-THPINACA and 13 metabolites for ADAMATYL-THPINACA. Various mono-, di-, and tri-hydroxylated metabolites were detected. For each SCRA, an abundant and characteristic di-hydroxylated metabolite was identified as a possible in vivo biomarker for screening methods. Metabolizing cytochrome P450 isoenzymes were investigated via incubation of relevant recombinant liver enzymes. The involvement of mainly CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 in the metabolism of both substances were noted, and for CUMYL-THPINACA the additional involvement (to a lesser extent) of CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 was observed. The results suggest that ADAMANTYL-THPINACA might be more prone to metabolic drug-drug interactions than CUMYL-THPINACA, when co-administrated with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Katja Mercer-Chalmers-Bender
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; (M.C.M.); (E.S.)
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38
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Rodrigues TB, Souza MP, de Melo Barbosa L, de Carvalho Ponce J, Júnior LFN, Yonamine M, Costa JL. Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists profile in infused papers seized in Brazilian prisons. Forensic Toxicol 2021; 40:119-124. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-021-00586-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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39
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Pike E, Grafinger KE, Cannaert A, Ametovski A, Luo JL, Sparkes E, Cairns EA, Ellison R, Gerona R, Stove CP, Auwärter V, Banister SD. Systematic evaluation of a panel of 30 synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists structurally related to MMB-4en-PICA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, ADB-4en-PINACA, and MMB-4CN-BUTINACA using a combination of binding and different CB 1 receptor activation assays: Part I-Synthesis, analytical characterization, and binding affinity for human CB 1 receptors. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:1383-1401. [PMID: 33787091 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are one of the largest and most structurally diverse classes of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Despite this, pharmacological data are often lacking following the identification of a new SCRA in drug markets. In this first of a three-part series, we describe the synthesis, analytical characterization, and binding affinity of a proactively generated, systematic library of 30 indole, indazole, and 7-azaindole SCRAs related to MMB-4en-PICA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, ADB-4en-PINACA, and MMB-4CN-BUTINACA featuring a 4-pentenyl (4en-P), butyl (B/BUT), or 4-cyanobutyl (4CN-B/BUT) tail and a methyl l-valinate (MMB), methyl l-tert-leucinate (MDMB), methyl l-phenylalaninate (MPP), l-valinamide (AB), l-tert-leucinamide (ADB), l-phenylalaninamide (APP), adamantyl (A), or cumyl head group. Competitive radioligand binding assays demonstrated that the indazole core conferred the highest CB1 binding affinity (Ki = 0.17-39 nM), followed by indole- (Ki = 0.95-160 nM) and then 7-azaindole-derived SCRAs (Ki = 5.4-271 nM). Variation of the head group had the greatest effect on binding, with tert-leucine amides and methyl esters (Ki = 0.17-14 nM) generally showing the greatest affinities, followed by valine derivatives (Ki = 0.72-180 nM), and then phenylalanine derivatives (Ki = 2.5-271 nM). Adamantyl head groups (Ki = 8.8-59 nM) were suboptimal for binding, whereas the cumyl analogues consistently conferred high affinity (Ki = 0.62-36 nM). Finally, both butyl (Ki = 3.1-163 nM) and 4-cyanobutyl (Ki = 5.5-44 nM) tail groups were less favorable for CB1 binding than their corresponding 4-pentenyl counterparts (Ki = 0.72-25 nM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Pike
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Chemistry, University of York, York, UK
| | - Katharina Elisabeth Grafinger
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Adam Ametovski
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jia Lin Luo
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eric Sparkes
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Cairns
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ross Ellison
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Roy Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Samuel D Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Qin S, Xin G, Wei J, He G, Yuan Z, Liu H, Zhang X, Wang Y, Zhang WF, Lu J. Metabolic Profiles of 5F-MDMB-PICA in Human Urine, Serum, and Hair Samples Using LC-Q Exactive HF MS. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 46:408-420. [PMID: 33860792 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkab034] [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: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2020, 5F-MDMB-PICA (5F-MDMB-2201) was one of the most common synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) identified in drugs seized by the Beijing Drug Control Agency and it was categorized as Schedule II by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in March 2020. It is difficult to detect 5F-MDMB-PICA in biological matrices due to its fast metabolic rate in vivo. In this work, 5F-MDMB-PICA metabolic profiles were investigated by liquid chromatography-Q Exactive HF Hybrid Quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (LC-QE-HF-MS), with accurate mass measurements in human urine, serum, and pubic hair. To obtain intact metabolites, solid-phase extraction (SPE) for urine and serum and direct ultrasonic extraction for pubic hair were applied to clean the samples without enzymatic hydrolysis. The differences in 5F-MDMB-PICA metabolism in the three different matrices were compared for the first time to determine the best detection biomarkers for monitoring 5F-MDMB-PICA misuse. Urine samples were determined to be the preferred biological material for identifying 5F-MDMB-PICA abuse. Forty-seven intact metabolites were detected in human urine, the ester-hydrolyzed with glucuronidated metabolite in urine samples can be used as the primary biomarker to identify drug misuse. Fifteen metabolites were found in serum samples. Ester hydrolysis was considered to be the major metabolic pathway, and a large number of metabolites were involved with it. Zero metabolites apart from the parent drug were detected in pubic hair samples. Twenty-eight new metabolites and their metabolic pathways were characterized and tentatively identified by LC-QE-HF-MS, and a new potential biomarker (M5 Ester hydrolysis + propionic acid) was also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyang Qin
- The Criminal Investigation Department of Beijing Public Security Bureau, 1st Longgang Road, Haidian District Beijing 100085, China (Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security)
| | - Guobin Xin
- The Criminal Investigation Department of Beijing Public Security Bureau, 1st Longgang Road, Haidian District Beijing 100085, China (Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security)
| | - Juanna Wei
- The Criminal Investigation Department of Beijing Public Security Bureau, 1st Longgang Road, Haidian District Beijing 100085, China (Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security)
| | - Genye He
- National Anti-doping Laboratory, China Anti-doping Agency, 1st Anding Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Zengping Yuan
- The Criminal Investigation Department of Beijing Public Security Bureau, 1st Longgang Road, Haidian District Beijing 100085, China (Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security)
| | - Hua Liu
- The Criminal Investigation Department of Beijing Public Security Bureau, 1st Longgang Road, Haidian District Beijing 100085, China (Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security)
| | - Xu Zhang
- The Criminal Investigation Department of Beijing Public Security Bureau, 1st Longgang Road, Haidian District Beijing 100085, China (Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security)
| | - Yuanfeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, China University of Political Science and Law, No 26 Houtun South Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100025, China.,China Collaborative Innivation Center of Judical Civilization, No 26 Houtun South Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100025, China
| | - Wen Fang Zhang
- The Criminal Investigation Department of Beijing Public Security Bureau, 1st Longgang Road, Haidian District Beijing 100085, China (Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security)
| | - Jianghai Lu
- Drug and Food Anti-doping Laboratory, China Anti-Doping Agency, 1st Anding Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
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Comprehensive analytical and structural characteristics of methyl 3,3-dimethyl-2-(1-(pent-4-en-1-yl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamido)butanoate (MDMB-4en-PINACA). Forensic Toxicol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-021-00573-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the study was to evaluate a complete analytical and structural characterization of methyl 3,3-dimethyl-2-(1-(pent-4-en-1-yl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamido)butanoate (MDMB-4en-PINACA), a novel synthetic cannabinoid being the analogue of 5F-ADB.
Methods
The compound was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), high-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS), X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic methods, such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies. To derive MDMB-4en-PINACA molecular geometry and to assign infrared absorption bands, quantum calculations with the employment of density functional theory were also used.
Results
We present a wide range of chromatographic and spectroscopic data supported with theoretical calculations allowing to identify MDMB-4en-PINACA.
Conclusions
To our knowledge, this is the first report presenting a comprehensive analytical and structural characterization of MDMB-4en-PINACA obtained by 1D and 2D NMR, GC–MS, LC–MS(/MS), attenuated total reflection-FTIR spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction and quantum chemical calculations. The presented results not only broaden the knowledge about this psychoactive substance but also are useful for forensic and clinical purposes.
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Tettey JNA, Crean C, Rodrigues J, Angeline Yap TW, Lee Wendy Lim J, Shirley Lee HZ, Ching M. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime: Recommended methods for the Identification and Analysis of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists in Seized Materials. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2021; 3:100129. [PMID: 33665591 PMCID: PMC7902557 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2020.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Justice N A Tettey
- Laboratory and Scientific Services, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria
| | - Conor Crean
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria
| | - Joao Rodrigues
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | | | - Mei Ching
- Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
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A Systematic Study of the In Vitro Pharmacokinetics and Estimated Human In Vivo Clearance of Indole and Indazole-3-Carboxamide Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists Detected on the Illicit Drug Market. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26051396. [PMID: 33807614 PMCID: PMC7961380 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26051396] [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: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro pharmacokinetic studies were conducted on enantiomer pairs of twelve valinate or tert-leucinate indole and indazole-3-carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) detected on the illicit drug market to investigate their physicochemical parameters and structure-metabolism relationships (SMRs). Experimentally derived Log D7.4 ranged from 2.81 (AB-FUBINACA) to 4.95 (MDMB-4en-PINACA) and all SCRAs tested were highly protein bound, ranging from 88.9 ± 0.49% ((R)-4F-MDMB-BINACA) to 99.5 ± 0.08% ((S)-MDMB-FUBINACA). Most tested SCRAs were cleared rapidly in vitro in pooled human liver microsomes (pHLM) and pooled cryopreserved human hepatocytes (pHHeps). Intrinsic clearance (CLint) ranged from 13.7 ± 4.06 ((R)-AB-FUBINACA) to 2944 ± 95.9 mL min−1 kg−1 ((S)-AMB-FUBINACA) in pHLM, and from 110 ± 34.5 ((S)-AB-FUBINACA) to 3216 ± 607 mL min−1 kg−1 ((S)-AMB-FUBINACA) in pHHeps. Predicted Human in vivo hepatic clearance (CLH) ranged from 0.34 ± 0.09 ((S)-AB-FUBINACA) to 17.79 ± 0.20 mL min−1 kg−1 ((S)-5F-AMB-PINACA) in pHLM and 1.39 ± 0.27 ((S)-MDMB-FUBINACA) to 18.25 ± 0.12 mL min−1 kg−1 ((S)-5F-AMB-PINACA) in pHHeps. Valinate and tert-leucinate indole and indazole-3-carboxamide SCRAs are often rapidly metabolised in vitro but are highly protein bound in vivo and therefore predicted in vivo CLH is much slower than CLint. This is likely to give rise to longer detection windows of these substances and their metabolites in urine, possibly as a result of accumulation of parent drug in lipid-rich tissues, with redistribution into the circulatory system and subsequent metabolism.
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44
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Norman C, Halter S, Haschimi B, Acreman D, Smith J, Krotulski AJ, Mohr ALA, Logan BK, NicDaéid N, Auwärter V, McKenzie C. A transnational perspective on the evolution of the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists market: Comparing prison and general populations. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:841-852. [PMID: 33463894 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) market is transnational, and the availability of individual SCRAs changes regularly in response to national and international legislative controls. This generates a cyclic pattern and near constant evolution of SCRA compounds. This study reports toxicology-based and/or seized sample-based prevalence data relating to SCRA use in prisons from Germany, the United Kingdom (UK; Scotland and Wales), and the United States (US), representing 4427 individual test results. The study examines SCRA detections in prisons from July 2018 to September 2020, and where possible, prison-based data are compared with SCRA prevalence data in the wider population. The relative influence of Chinese, other international, and national drug legislation on the prevalence of individual SCRAs in prisons is also considered. tert-Leucinate- and valinate-indole- and indazole-3-carboxamides were the most common SCRA detections, and MDMB-4en-PINACA was one of the most commonly detected SCRAs in all jurisdictions by September 2020. However, despite there being a global production and supply market, there were notable regional differences. Analog controls in German and US legislation may have led to increased compound diversity that is not reflected in the UK which has both analog controls and a blanket ban on psychoactive substances. While there were regional differences, SCRA prevalence in prisons closely aligned with the SCRAs detected on the local market, demonstrating that SCRA (and possibly other NPS) monitoring programs in prisons can act as early warning systems for the wider population in that given jurisdiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Sebastian Halter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Belal Haschimi
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dean Acreman
- Welsh Emerging Drugs and Identification of Novel Substances Project, Public Health, Wales, UK
| | - Josie Smith
- Welsh Emerging Drugs and Identification of Novel Substances Project, Public Health, Wales, UK
| | - Alex J Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amanda L A Mohr
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Barry K Logan
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA.,NMS Labs, Horsham, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Niamh NicDaéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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Norman C, McKirdy B, Walker G, Dugard P, NicDaéid N, McKenzie C. Large-scale evaluation of ion mobility spectrometry for the rapid detection of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in infused papers in prisons. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:644-663. [PMID: 33058556 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs), colloquially known as "spice," are commonly used in prisons and enter establishments via the mail in the form of infused papers. Many prisons use benchtop ion mobility spectroscopy (IMS) instruments to screen mail and seized materials for the presence of SCRAs and other controlled substances. The selectivity and sensitivity of Rapiscan Itemiser® 3E and Itemiser® 4DN Ion Trap Mobility Spectroscopy™ (ITMS™) systems were evaluated using 21 SCRA reference standards. Some differences in the SCRA reduced mobility (K0 ) values were observed between this study and those reported previously using IMS detection systems, particularly for cumyl and quinolinyl SCRAs (e.g., 5F-PB-22, Cumyl-4CN-BINACA, and 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE), although this was found to have little effect at an operational level. Operational reliability of the systems was evaluated by analyzing 392 paper and card samples with known drug content. ITMS™ system results (e.g., detect or nondetect) were in agreement with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis in up to 95% of samples tested. Overall, this study found the ITMS™ systems tested to be effective instruments when deployed for the rapid detection of SCRA-infused papers. Used effectively and with up-to-date substance libraries, they will help reduce the supply of SCRAs into prisons and identify emerging threats as they arise. Several emerging SCRAs (5F-MPP-PICA, 5F-EMB-PICA, and 4F-MDMB-BICA) were detected for the first time in Scottish prisons between May and August 2020 as a result of routine monitoring, and all were detected using the ITMS™ systems tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Brian McKirdy
- HMP Inverness, Scottish Prison Service, Inverness, UK
| | - Gillian Walker
- Public Protection Unit, Scottish Prison Service, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Pat Dugard
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Niamh NicDaéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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Cannaert A, Sparkes E, Pike E, Luo JL, Fang A, Kevin RC, Ellison R, Gerona R, Banister SD, Stove CP. Synthesis and in Vitro Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Activity of Recently Detected Synthetic Cannabinoids 4F-MDMB-BICA, 5F-MPP-PICA, MMB-4en-PICA, CUMYL-CBMICA, ADB-BINACA, APP-BINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, A-CHMINACA, 5F-AB-P7AICA, 5F-MDMB-P7AICA, and 5F-AP7AICA. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:4434-4446. [PMID: 33253529 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are an evolving class of new psychoactive substances (NPS) with structurally diverse compounds emerging each year. Due to the rapid pace at which these drugs enter the market, there is often little or nil information regarding the pharmacology of these substances despite widespread human use. In this study, 12 recently emerged SCRAs (reported between 2018 and 2020) were synthesized, analytically characterized, and pharmacologically evaluated using a live cell-based nanoluciferase complementation reporter assay that monitors in vitro cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) activation via its interaction with β-arrestin 2 (βarr2). All synthesized SCRAs acted as agonists of CB1, although differences in potency (EC50 = 2.33-5475 nM) and efficacy (Emax = 37-378%) were noted, and several structure-activity relationships were identified. SCRAs featuring indazole cores (EC50 = 2.33-159 nM) were generally of equal or greater potency than indole analogues (EC50 = 32.9-330 nM) or 7-azaindole derivatives (EC50 = 64.0-5475 nM). Interestingly, with the exception of APP-BINACA (Emax = 75.7%) and 5F-A-P7AICA (Emax = 37.4%), all SCRAs showed greater efficacy than the historical SCRA JWH-018 to which responses were normalized (Emax = 142-378%). The most potent CB1 agonists in the study were ADB-BINACA (EC50 = 6.36 nM), 4F-MDMB-BINACA (EC50 = 7.39 nM), and MDMB-4en-PINACA (EC50 = 2.33 nM). Notably, all of these SCRAs featured an indazole core as well as a "bulky" tert-butyl moiety in the pendant amino acid side chain. This study confirms that recently detected SCRAs 4F-MDMB-BICA, 5F-MPP-PICA, MMB-4en-PICA, CUMYL-CBMICA, ADB-BINACA, APP-BINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, A-CHMINACA, 5F-AB-P7AICA, 5F-MDMB-P7AICA, and 5F-AP7AICA were all able to activate the CB1 receptor in vitro, albeit to different extents, and are potentially psychoactive in vivo. These results indicate that further evaluation of these widely used NPS is warranted to better understand the risks associated with human consumption of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Eric Sparkes
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Edward Pike
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Department of Chemistry, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Jia Lin Luo
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Ada Fang
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Ross Ellison
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Roy Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Christophe P. Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
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Antonides LH, Cannaert A, Norman C, NicDáeid N, Sutcliffe OB, Stove CP, McKenzie C. Shape matters: The application of activity-based in vitro bioassays and chiral profiling to the pharmacological evaluation of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in drug-infused papers seized in prisons. Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:628-643. [PMID: 33161649 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) elicit many of their psychoactive effects via type-1 human cannabinoid (CB1 ) receptors. Enantiomer pairs of eight tert-leucinate or valinate indole- and indazole-3-carboxamide SCRAs were synthesized and their CB1 potency and efficacy assessed using an in vitro β-arrestin recruitment assay in a HEK239T stable cell system. A chiral high-performance liquid chromatography method with photodiode array and/or quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry detection (HPLC-PDA and HPLC-PDA-QToF-MS) was applied to 177 SCRA-infused paper samples seized in Scottish prisons between 2018 and 2020. In most samples, SCRAs were almost enantiopure (S)-enantiomer (>98% of total chromatographic peak area), although in some (n = 18), 2% to 16% of the (R)-enantiomer was detected. (S)-enantiomers are consistently more potent than (R)-enantiomers and often more efficacious. The importance of SCRA-CB1 receptor interactions in the "head" or "linked group" moiety is demonstrated, with the conformation of the "bulky" tert-leucinate group greatly affecting potency (by up to a factor of 374), significantly greater than the difference observed between valinate SCRA enantiomers. (S)-MDMB-4en-PINACA, (S)-4F-MDMB-BINACA, and (S)-5F-MDMB-PICA are currently the most prevalent SCRAs in Scottish prisons, and all have similar high potency (EC50 , 1-5 nM) and efficacy. Infused paper samples were compared using estimated intrinsic efficacy at the CB1 receptor (EIECB1 ) to evaluate samples with variable SCRA content. Given their similar potency and efficacy, any variation in CB1 receptor-mediated psychoactive effects are likely to derive from variation in dose, mode of use, pharmacokinetic differences, and individual factors affecting the user, rather than differences in the specific SCRA present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lysbeth H Antonides
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Niamh NicDáeid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Oliver B Sutcliffe
- Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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Halter S, Pulver B, Wilde M, Haschimi B, Westphal F, Riedel J, Pütz M, Schönberger T, Stoll S, Schäper J, Auwärter V. Cumyl-CBMICA: A new synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist containing a cyclobutyl methyl side chain. Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:208-216. [PMID: 33037749 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Since the beginning of the phenomenon of new psychoactive substances (NPS), synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) have been the largest and most prevalent subclass of these drugs in Europe. Many countries implemented specific legislation scheduling classes of substances defined on the basis of their chemical structure to reduce supply. We describe the identification and analytical characterization within the EU project ADEBAR plus of 1-(cyclobutylmethyl)-N-(2-phenylpropan-2-yl)-1H-indole-3-carboxamide which resulted in the formal notification through the Early Warning System of the European Monitoring Centre for Drug and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). This is the first identification of this new SCRA worldwide and the analytical data was distributed (inter-)nationally right after identification in 2019. First, the substance was isolated from the herbal material using preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Structure elucidation and analytical characterization were performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), gas chromatography-solid state infrared spectroscopy (GC-sIR), liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole time of flight-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-qToF-MS), Raman spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The new compound contains a cyclobutyl methyl group as a side chain and has not been described in any patent to our knowledge. Based on the semisystematic nomenclature of SCRAs, we propose Cumyl-CBMICA as a short name for the compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Halter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Pulver
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Forensic Science Institute, Kiel, Germany
| | - Maurice Wilde
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Belal Haschimi
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Folker Westphal
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Forensic Science Institute, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jan Riedel
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Michael Pütz
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Torsten Schönberger
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Stefanie Stoll
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Jan Schäper
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Bavaria, Forensic Science Institute, Munich, Germany
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Krotulski AJ, Cannaert A, Stove C, Logan BK. The next generation of synthetic cannabinoids: Detection, activity, and potential toxicity of pent-4en and but-3en analogues including MDMB-4en-PINACA. Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:427-438. [PMID: 32997377 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A new class of synthetic cannabinoids has emerged as new psychoactive substances (NPS). Similar in structure to JWH-022, these substances contain alkene modifications to the tail region of the synthetic cannabinoid core structure, and nomenclature denotes these new analogues as pent-4en or but-3en species. Internationally, two analogues from this new series recently emerged: MDMB-4en-PINACA and MMB-4en-PICA. Previously, data regarding activity and potential toxicity were not available. In vitro assessment of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) activation via the β-arrestin 2 recruitment was studied for three (3) pent-4en analogues, one (1) but-3en analogue, and one (1) principal metabolite. MDMB-4en-PINACA (2.47 nM, 239%), MDMB-4en-PICA (11.5 nM, 302%), and MDMB-3en-BINACA (14.3 nM, 286%) were highly potent and efficacious (comparison: JWH-018, 25.3 nM, 100%), while the potencies of MMB-4en-PICA and MDMB-4en-PINACA 3,3-dimethylbutanoic acid were markedly lower. Modifications to core and tail structural features (i.e., indole vs. indazole) led to relatively small differences in potency, while changes among the head region led to larger differences. Sample-mining and data-mining conducted on toxicology samples led to the identification of MDMB-4en-PINACA in 25 forensic toxicology cases, including postmortem and impaired driving investigations, with case details and limited histories described herein. Moderate geographical distribution of MDMB-4en-PINACA was noted in the United States with emergence in the Northeast, Midwest, South, and West regions. Results from toxicology testing paired with case history show the potential for MDMB-4en-PINACA to cause or contribute to impairment or death. Forensic scientists, public health and public safety officials, law enforcement, clinicians, medical examiners, and coroners should consider involvement of emergent synthetic cannabinoids in their work and that new analogues containing an alkene tail can retain similar or increased potency and toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, PA, USA
| | - Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Barry K Logan
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, PA, USA.,Toxicology Department, NMS Labs, Horsham, PA, USA
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Watanabe S, Wu X, Dahlen J, Konradsson P, Vikingsson S, Kronstrand R, Gréen H. Metabolism of MMB022 and identification of dihydrodiol formation in vitro using synthesized standards. Drug Test Anal 2020; 12:1432-1441. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shimpei Watanabe
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Linköping University Linköping Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology National Board of Forensic Medicine Linköping Sweden
| | - Xiongyu Wu
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology Linköping University Linköping Sweden
| | - Johan Dahlen
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology Linköping University Linköping Sweden
| | - Peter Konradsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology Linköping University Linköping Sweden
| | - Svante Vikingsson
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Linköping University Linköping Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology National Board of Forensic Medicine Linköping Sweden
| | - Robert Kronstrand
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Linköping University Linköping Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology National Board of Forensic Medicine Linköping Sweden
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Linköping University Linköping Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology National Board of Forensic Medicine Linköping Sweden
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