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Aspeslagh B, Calle P, De Pooter J. Wolff Parkinson White and recreational (meth)amphetamine use: a potentially lethal combination. Acta Clin Belg 2021; 76:406-409. [PMID: 32243227 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2020.1746885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac arrest in Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) is a rare event, and although some patients appear to be at greater risk, there is no consensus on clear risk factors. We present a case of a 23-year-old male patient, with a known history of WPW pattern, who suffered an out of hospital ventricular fibrillation after the consumption of rather small dose of (meth)amphetamines. The use of illegal drug can predispose WPW patients to fatal arrhythmia and cardiac arrest. Patients with WPW pattern should be well informed about the risks of (meth)amphetamines and some might be considered for medical therapy or catheter ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Aspeslagh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - P. Calle
- Department of Emergency Medicine, AZ Maria Middelares, Ghent, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J. De Pooter
- Department of Cardiology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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2
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Losacker M, Zörntlein S, Schwarze B, Staudt S, Röhrich J, Hess C. Determination of the enantiomeric composition of amphetamine, methamphetamine and 3,4-methylendioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) in seized street drug samples from southern Germany. Drug Test Anal 2021; 14:557-566. [PMID: 34169674 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Amphetamine (speed), methamphetamine (crystal meth), and 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) represent the most frequently abused amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS). Differences in pharmacological potency and metabolism have been shown for the enantiomers of all three stimulants. Legal consequences in cases of drug possession may also differ according to the German law depending on the enantiomeric composition of the seized drug. Therefore, enantioselective monitoring of seized specimens is crucial for legal and forensic casework. Various kinds of samples of amphetamine (n = 143), MDMA (n = 94), and methamphetamine (n = 528) that were seized in southern Germany in 2019 and 2020 were analyzed for their chiral composition using different chromatographic methods. Whereas all samples of amphetamine and MDMA were racemic mixtures, the chiral composition of the methamphetamine specimens was diverse. Although the vast majority (n = 502) was present as (S)-methamphetamine, also specimens containing pure (R)-methamphetamine (n = 7) were found. Furthermore, few samples (n = 8) were of racemic nature or contained non-racemic mixtures of both enantiomers (n = 10). Because methamphetamine appears in varying enantiomeric compositions, any seizure should be analyzed using an enantioselective method. Amphetamine and MDMA, on the other hand, currently appear to be synthesized exclusively via racemic pathways and are not chirally purified. Nevertheless, regular monitoring of the chiral composition should be ensured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Losacker
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Siegfried Zörntlein
- Forensic Science Institute, Dez. 33 Chemistry/Toxicology, State Office of Criminal Investigation Rhineland-Palatinate, Mainz, Germany
| | - Bernd Schwarze
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Svenja Staudt
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg Röhrich
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Cornelius Hess
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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3
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Fonseca DA, Ribeiro DM, Tapadas M, Cotrim MD. Ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine): Cardiovascular effects and mechanisms. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 903:174156. [PMID: 33971177 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine or MDMA (known as "ecstasy") is a recreational drug of abuse, popular worldwide for its distinctive psychotropic effects. Currently, the therapeutic potential of MDMA in psychotherapy has attracted a lot of interest from the scientific community, despite the multitude of effects that this drug of abuse elicits on the human body. While neuronal effects have been the most studied, cardiovascular effects have also been described, as increased blood pressure and heart rate are the most recognizable. However, other effects have also been described at the cardiac (impaired cardiac contractile function, arrhythmias, myocardial necrosis and valvular heart disease) and vascular (vasoconstriction, disruption of vascular integrity and altered haemostasis) levels. Several mechanisms have been proposed, from the interaction with monoamine transporters and receptors to the promotion of oxidative stress or the activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). This review provides an overview of the cardiovascular implications of MDMA intake and underlying mechanisms, relevant when considering its consumption as drug of abuse but also when considering its therapeutic potential in psychiatry. Moreover, the risk/benefit ratio of the therapeutic use of MDMA remains to be fully elucidated from a cardiovascular standpoint, particularly in patients with underlying cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo A Fonseca
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Daniel M Ribeiro
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Margarida Tapadas
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Dulce Cotrim
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
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4
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Golchoobian R, Nabavizadeh F, Roghani M, Foroumadi A, Izad M, Bahrami M, Fanaei H. Exogenous Ghrelin Could Not Ameliorate 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced Acute Liver Injury in The Rat: Involved Mechanisms. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2020; 19:343-354. [PMID: 32922492 PMCID: PMC7462488 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2020.1100940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ecstasy) is often abused by youth as a recreational drug. MDMA abuse is a growing problem in different parts of the world. An important adverse consequence of the drug consumption is hepatotoxicity of different intensities. However, the underlying mechanism of this toxicity has not been completely understood. Ghrelin is a gut hormone with growth hormone stimulatory effect. It expresses in liver, albeit at a much lower level than in stomach, and exerts a hepatoprotective effect. In this study, we investigated hepatotoxicity effect of MDMA alone and its combination with ghrelin as a hepatoprotective agent. MDMA and MDMA+ ghrelin could transiently increase serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) followed by tissue necrosis. However, they could significantly decrease liver tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-±) in both treatment groups. Unexpectedly, in MDMA treated rats, Bax, Bcl-xl, Bcl-2, Fas, Fas ligand (Fas-L), caspase 8, cytochrome c, caspase 3 gene expression, and DNA fragmentation were nearly unchanged. In addition, apoptosis in MDMA+ ghrelin group was significantly reduced when compared with MDMA treated animals. In all, MDMA could transiently increase serum transaminases and induce tissue necrosis and liver toxicity. Ghrelin, however, could not stop liver enzyme rise and MDMA hepatotoxicity. MDMA hepatotoxicity seems to be mediated via tissue necrosis than apoptotic and inflammatory pathways. Conceivably, ghrelin as an anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic agent may not protect hepatocytes against MDMA liver toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravieh Golchoobian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nabavizadeh
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Roghani
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Foroumadi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Izad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Bahrami
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hafseh Fanaei
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Sancho Santos ME, Grabicová K, Steinbach C, Schmidt-Posthaus H, Šálková E, Kolářová J, Vojs Staňová A, Grabic R, Randák T. Environmental concentration of methamphetamine induces pathological changes in brown trout (Salmo trutta fario). CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 254:126882. [PMID: 32957289 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine, mainly consumed as an illicit drug, is a potent addictive psychostimulant that has been detected in surface water at concentrations ranging from nanograms to micrograms per litre, especially in Middle and East Europe. The aim of this study was to expose brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) to environmental (1 μg L-1) and higher (50 μg L-1) concentrations of methamphetamine for 35 days with a four-day depuration phase to assess the possible negative effects on fish health. Degenerative liver and heart alterations, similar to those described in mammals, were observed at both concentrations, although at different intensities. Apoptotic changes in hepatocytes, revealed by activated caspase-3, were found in exposed fish. The parent compound and a metabolite (amphetamine) were detected in fish tissues in both concentration groups, in the order of kidney > liver > brain > muscle > plasma. Bioconcentration factors ranged from 0.13 to 80. A therapeutic plasma concentration was reached for both compounds in the high-concentration treatment. This study indicates that chronic environmental concentrations of methamphetamine can lead to health issues in aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Sancho Santos
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic.
| | - Kateřina Grabicová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Christoph Steinbach
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Heike Schmidt-Posthaus
- University of Bern, Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Laenggassstrasse 122, 3001, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Eva Šálková
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Kolářová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Vojs Staňová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic; Comenius University in Bratislava, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Ilkovicova 6, SK-842 15, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Roman Grabic
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Randák
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zátiší 728/II, 389 25, Vodňany, Czech Republic
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6
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Cajanding RJM. MDMA-Associated Liver Toxicity: Pathophysiology, Management, and Current State of Knowledge. AACN Adv Crit Care 2020; 30:232-248. [PMID: 31462520 DOI: 10.4037/aacnacc2019852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) has become a popular recreational drug of abuse among young adults, partly because of the belief that it is relatively safe compared with other drugs with the same stimulant and hallucinogenic effects. However, MDMA use has been associated with a wide spectrum of organ toxicities, with the liver being severely affected by its deleterious effects. This article discusses the essential pharmacology of MDMA and describes the effects MDMA has on various organ systems of the body, with particular focus on the liver. The putative mechanisms by which MDMA can cause liver damage are explored, with emphasis on patient-related factors that explain why some individuals are more susceptible than others to damage from MDMA. The incidence of hepatotoxicity related to MDMA use is presented, and the nursing management of patients who develop acute liver failure due to MDMA overuse is explored in light of current evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruff Joseph Macale Cajanding
- Ruff Joseph Macale Cajanding is Charge Nurse, Adult Critical Care Unit, 6th Floor, King George V Building, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, 2 King Edward Street, London EC1A 1HQ, United Kingdom
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7
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Kafle P, Shrestha B, Mandal A, Sharma D, Bhandari M, Amgai B, Khalid M, Sidhu JS, Solaimanzadeh I, Gayam V, Surana R, Dufresne A. Ecstasy induced acute systolic heart failure and Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy in a young female: a rare case report and literature review. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2019; 9:336-339. [PMID: 31528284 PMCID: PMC6735291 DOI: 10.1080/20009666.2019.1650593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecstasy or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an illicit recreational drug. Effects include euphoria, increased sensory awareness, and central stimulation. Although various arrhythmias, as well as dilated cardiomyopathy, have been previously noted to occur with chronic use, cardiac toxicities are seldom reported in an acute setting. Herein, we present a 28-year-old female patient with no prior medical condition that presented to the Emergency Department with chest pain following intake of MDMA. Electrocardiographic findings, as well as laboratories, were suggestive of possible Acute Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction. Upon admission, cardiac catheterization revealed patent coronary arteries. Stark regional wall motion abnormalities were observed along with reduced ejection fraction. Acute systolic heart failure was treated with standard medical management. Subsequent reassessment of ventricular function with Echocardiography revealed marked improvement. This article describes a case of MDMA induced heart failure, including details of evaluation, management, and monitoring of patient progress. It brings further attention to potential acute harmful effects of MDMA on cardiac function and viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paritosh Kafle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Binav Shrestha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Amrendra Mandal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Dikshya Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Manjul Bhandari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Birendra Amgai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Mazin Khalid
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Jasdeep S Sidhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Isaac Solaimanzadeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Vijay Gayam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Rahul Surana
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Alix Dufresne
- Department of Cardiology, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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8
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Bonsignore A, Barranco R, Morando A, Fraternali Orcioni G, Ventura F. MDMA Induced Cardio-toxicity and Pathological Myocardial Effects: A Systematic Review of Experimental Data and Autopsy Findings. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2019; 19:493-499. [DOI: 10.1007/s12012-019-09526-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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10
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Dunlap LE, Andrews AM, Olson DE. Dark Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:2408-2427. [PMID: 30001118 PMCID: PMC6197894 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Better known as "ecstasy", 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a small molecule that has played a prominent role in defining the ethos of today's teenagers and young adults, much like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) did in the 1960s. Though MDMA possesses structural similarities to compounds like amphetamine and mescaline, it produces subjective effects that are unlike any of the classical psychostimulants or hallucinogens and is one of the few compounds capable of reliably producing prosocial behavioral states. As a result, MDMA has captured the attention of recreational users, the media, artists, psychiatrists, and neuropharmacologists alike. Here, we detail the synthesis of MDMA as well as its pharmacology, metabolism, adverse effects, and potential use in medicine. Finally, we discuss its history and why it is perhaps the most important compound for the future of psychedelic science-having the potential to either facilitate new psychedelic research initiatives, or to usher in a second Dark Age for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee E Dunlap
- Department of Chemistry , University of California, Davis , One Shields Avenue , Davis , California 95616 , United States
| | - Anne M Andrews
- Departments of Psychiatry and Chemistry & Biochemistry, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology , University of California , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - David E Olson
- Department of Chemistry , University of California, Davis , One Shields Avenue , Davis , California 95616 , United States
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine , University of California, Davis , 2700 Stockton Blvd, Suite 2102 , Sacramento , California 95817 , United States
- Center for Neuroscience , University of California, Davis , 1544 Newton Ct , Davis , California 95616 , United States
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11
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Milroy CM, Kepron C, Parai JL. Histologic Changes In Recreational Drug Misuse. Acad Forensic Pathol 2018; 8:653-691. [PMID: 31240063 DOI: 10.1177/1925362118797740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Use of recreational drugs is associated with a number of histologic changes. These may be related to the method of administration or due to systemic effects of the drugs. This paper reviews the histopathological features seen following recreational drug use. With injection, there may be local effects from abscess formation and systemic effects may result in amyloidosis. Injections have been associated with necrotizing fasciitis, anthrax, and clostridial infections. Systemic effects include infective endocarditis, with the risk of embolization, and abscesses may be seen in organs in the absence of infective endocarditis. Viral complications of injection include hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Injecting crushed tablets can result in intravascular granulomata in the lungs. Smoking drugs is associated with intraalveolar changes, including blackand brown-pigmented macrophages in crack cocaine and cannabis smoking, respectively. Snorting may result in intraalveolar granulomata forming when crush tablets are used and there may be systemic granulomata. Stimulants are associated with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular pathology, including contraction band necrosis and myocardial fibrosis, as well as coronary artery dissection. Stimulants may cause hyperpyrexia and rhabdomyolysis, which may be associated with changes in multiple organs including myoglobin casts in the kidney. Opioids cause respiratory depression and this can be associated with inhalational pneumonia and hypoxia in other organs if there is resuscitation and a period of survival. Ketamine use has been associated with changes in the urothelium and the liver. This paper reviews histology changes that may be seen in drug-related deaths using illustrative cases.
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12
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Davies N, English W, Grundlingh J. MDMA toxicity: management of acute and life-threatening presentations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 27:616-622. [DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2018.27.11.616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Davies
- Senior Sister, Emergency Department, Royal London Hospital
| | - William English
- NIHR Academic Clinical Fellow in General Surgery, Royal London Hospital
| | - Johann Grundlingh
- Emergency Medicine and Intensive Care Consultant, Royal London Hospital
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13
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Interactions of Gut Microbiota, Endotoxemia, Immune Function, and Diet in Exertional Heatstroke. JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE 2018; 2018:5724575. [PMID: 29850597 PMCID: PMC5926483 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5724575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Exertional heatstroke (EHS) is a medical emergency that cannot be predicted, requires immediate whole-body cooling to reduce elevated internal body temperature, and is influenced by numerous host and environmental factors. Widely accepted predisposing factors (PDF) include prolonged or intense exercise, lack of heat acclimatization, sleep deprivation, dehydration, diet, alcohol abuse, drug use, chronic inflammation, febrile illness, older age, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. The present review links these factors to the human intestinal microbiota (IM) and diet, which previously have not been appreciated as PDF. This review also describes plausible mechanisms by which these PDF lead to EHS: endotoxemia resulting from elevated plasma lipopolysaccharide (i.e., a structural component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria) and tissue injury from oxygen free radicals. We propose that recognizing the lifestyle and host factors which are influenced by intestine-microbial interactions, and modifying habitual dietary patterns to alter the IM ecosystem, will encourage efficient immune function, optimize the intestinal epithelial barrier, and reduce EHS morbidity and mortality.
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14
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Zaretsky DV, Kline H, Zaretskaia MV, Brown MB, Durant PJ, Alves NJ, Rusyniak DE. Disinhibiting neurons in the dorsomedial hypothalamus delays the onset of exertional fatigue and exhaustion in rats exercising in a warm environment. Brain Res 2018; 1689:12-20. [PMID: 29577887 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Stimulants cause hyperthermia, in part, by increasing heat generation through exercise. Stimulants also delay the onset of fatigue and exhaustion allowing animals to exercise longer. If used in a warm environment, this combination (increased exercise and decreased fatigue) can cause heat stroke. The dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) is involved in mediating locomotion from stimulants. Furthermore, inhibiting the DMH decreases locomotion and prevents hyperthermia in rats given stimulants in a warm environment. Whether the DMH is involved in mediating exercise-induced fatigue and exhaustion is not known. We hypothesized that disinhibiting neurons in the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) would delay the onset of fatigue and exhaustion in animals exercising in a warm environment. To test this hypothesis, we used automated video tracking software to measure fatigue and exhaustion. In rats, using wearable mini-pumps, we demonstrated that disinhibiting the DMH, via bicuculline perfusion (5 µM), increased the duration of exercise in a warm environment as compared to control animals (25 ± 3 min vs 15 ± 2 min). Bicuculline-perfused animals also had higher temperatures at exhaustion (41.4 ± 0.2 °C vs 40.0 ± 0.4 °C). Disinhibiting neurons in the DMH also increased the time to fatigue. Our data show that the same region of the hypothalamus that is involved in mediating locomotion to stimulants, is also involved in controlling exhaustion and fatigue. These findings have implications for understanding the cause and treatment of stimulant-induced-hyperthermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry V Zaretsky
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Hannah Kline
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Maria V Zaretskaia
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Mary Beth Brown
- Department of Physical Therapy, Indiana University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, USA
| | - Pamela J Durant
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Nathan J Alves
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Daniel E Rusyniak
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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15
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Papaseit E, Torrens M, Pérez-Mañá C, Muga R, Farré M. Key interindividual determinants in MDMA pharmacodynamics. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2018; 14:183-195. [DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2018.1424832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Papaseit
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol-IGTP, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - M. Torrens
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
- Drug Addiction Program, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions-INAD, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C. Pérez-Mañá
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol-IGTP, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - R. Muga
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol-IGTP, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - M. Farré
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol-IGTP, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
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16
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Abstract
This article discusses the misuse of drugs which act as stimulants, an effect mainly produced by enhancement of the central transmission of catecholamines, particularly dopamine. Stimulant misuse is extremely widespread in the UK and elsewhere, but primary users of such drugs present relatively rarely for treatment at drug services. At present such services mainly see heroin users, not only because the greater addictiveness of heroin produces generally higher levels of problems, but because a substitute treatment can be used in that group in the form of methadone.
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Vanhaebost J, Palmiere C, Scarpelli MP, Bou Abdallah F, Capron A, Schmit G. Postmortem diagnosis of hyponatremia: case report and literature review. Int J Legal Med 2017; 132:173-179. [PMID: 28503702 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1601-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Hyponatremia is defined as a plasma sodium concentration less than 135 or 130 mEq/L (or mmol/L) and may be responsible for life threatening symptoms that can be observed in a variety of medical conditions. Cases of fatal hyponatremia have been reported in both clinical and forensic literature in situations of water intoxication due to psychogenic polydipsia, amphetamine derivative drug intake, high-endurance exercise, iatrogenic causes, and exceptional cases of child abuse by forced water intoxication. Vitreous sodium levels have been determined to be relatively stable during the early postmortem period and similar to levels found in normal serum of living subjects. Nevertheless, there are relatively few cases of fatal hyponatremia described in literature that underwent exhaustive postmortem biochemical investigations. A case of fatal water intoxication in a psychiatric patient who underwent medicolegal investigations, including postmortem biochemistry, was chosen as a starting point to a literature review of deaths by hyponatremia that may be encountered in the forensic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Vanhaebost
- Service d'Anatomie Pathologique et Médecine Légale, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cristian Palmiere
- CURML, University Center of Legal Medicine, Chemin de la Vulliette 4, 1000, 25, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Maria Pia Scarpelli
- CURML, University Center of Legal Medicine, Chemin de la Vulliette 4, 1000, 25, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fabiola Bou Abdallah
- University Paris-Descartes, Laboratory of Medical Ethics and Forensic Medicine, Paris, France
| | - Arnaud Capron
- Clinical Chemistry Department, Cliniques Universitaires St Luc, Brussels, Belgium.,Louvain Center for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, Université Catholique de Louvain, UCL, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gregory Schmit
- Service d'Anatomie Pathologique et Médecine Légale, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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18
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Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders caused by toxic substances pose a great diagnostic challenge due to the large variety of changes caused in the central and peripheral nervous system. The pathogenetic mechanisms at work are multifaceted and partly not solved. In human drug abusers (cannabis, opiates, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamine and "designer drugs"), a broad spectrum of central nervous system alterations are observed including infarction, intracerebral and subarachnoidal hemorrhage, hypoxic-ischemic leukoencephalopathy, infections, neuronal loss, specific astroglial and microglial reaction patterns, and vascular changes, including the endothelial cell as well as the basal lamina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Weis
- Division of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology and Neuropathology, Kepler University Hospital and School of Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria.
| | - Andreas Büttner
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
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19
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Nakagawa Y, Suzuki T, Tada Y, Inomata A. Cytotoxic effects of psychotropic benzofuran derivatives, N-methyl-5-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran and its N-demethylated derivative, on isolated rat hepatocytes. J Appl Toxicol 2016; 37:243-252. [PMID: 27291301 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The novel psychoactive compounds derived from amphetamine have been illegally abused as recreational drugs, some of which are known to be hepatotoxic in humans and experimental animals. The cytotoxic effects and mechanisms of 5-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (5-APB) and N-methyl-5-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (5-MAPB), both of which are benzofuran analogues of amphetamine, and 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine (MDMA) were studied in freshly isolated rat hepatocytes. 5-MAPB caused not only concentration-dependent (0-4.0 mm) and time-dependent (0-3 h) cell death accompanied by the depletion of cellular ATP and reduced glutathione and protein thiol levels, but also accumulation of oxidized glutathione. Of the other analogues examined at a concentration of 4 mm, 5-MAPB/5-APB-induced cytotoxicity with the production of reactive oxygen species and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential was greater than that induced by MDMA. In isolated rat liver mitochondria, the benzofurans resulted in a greater increase in the rate of state 4 oxygen consumption than did MDMA, with a decrease in the rate of state 3 oxygen consumption. Furthermore, the benzofurans caused more of a rapid mitochondrial swelling dependent on the mitochondrial permeability transition than MDMA. 5-MAPB at a weakly toxic level (1 mm) was metabolized slowly: levels of 5-MAPB and 5-APB were approximately 0.9 mm and 50 μm, respectively, after 3 h incubation. Taken collectively, these results indicate that mitochondria are target organelles for the benzofuran analogues and MDMA, which elicit cytotoxicity through mitochondrial failure, and the onset of cytotoxicity may depend on the initial and/or residual concentrations of 5-MAPB rather than on those of its metabolite 5-APB. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshio Nakagawa
- Division of Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health, 3-24-1, Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-0073, Japan
| | - Toshinari Suzuki
- Division of Environmental Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health, 3-24-1, Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-0073, Japan
| | - Yukie Tada
- Division of Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health, 3-24-1, Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-0073, Japan
| | - Akiko Inomata
- Division of Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health, 3-24-1, Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-0073, Japan
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20
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Silva S, Carvalho F, Fernandes E, Antunes MJ, Cotrim MD. Contractile effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine on the human internal mammary artery. Toxicol In Vitro 2016; 34:187-193. [PMID: 27079619 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Since the late 1980s numerous reports have detailed adverse reactions to the use of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) associated with cardiovascular collapse and sudden death, following ventricular tachycardia and hypertension. For a better understanding of the effects of MDMA on the cardiovascular system, it is critical to determine their effects at the vasculature level, including the transporter or neurotransmitter systems that are most affected at the whole range of drug doses. With this purpose in mind, the aim of our study was to evaluate the contractile effect of MDMA in the human internal mammary artery, the contribution of SERT for this effect and the responsiveness of this artery to 5-HT in the presence of MDMA. We have also studied the possible involvement of 5-HT2 receptors on the MDMA contractile effect in this human blood vessel using ketanserin. Our results showed that MDMA contracted the studied human's internal mammary artery in a SERT-independent form, through activation of 5-HT2A receptors. Considering the high plasma concentrations achieved in heavy users or in situations of acute exposure to drugs, this effect is probably involved in the cardiovascular risk profile of this psychostimulant, especially in subjects with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Silva
- Group of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Félix Carvalho
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Fernandes
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel J Antunes
- Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Hospital of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Dulce Cotrim
- Group of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Portugal
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21
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Wenholz DS, Luong S, Philp M, Forbes SL, Stuart BH, Drummer OH, Fu S. A study to model the post-mortem stability of 4-MMC, MDMA and BZP in putrefying remains. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 265:54-60. [PMID: 26829335 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There is currently limited data available on the stabilities of the three stimulants 4-methylmethcathinone (4-MMC), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and N-benzylpiperazine (BZP) in a putrefying matrix. A Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) method to determine the concentration of the three drugs in putrefying porcine liver over a three month period was developed and validated. Both 4-MMC and BZP were found to be unstable, becoming undetectable and having an average recovery of 52% respectively after one month at ambient room temperature (20°C). MDMA was found to be moderately stable, with an average recovery of 74% after three months at room temperature. This study indicated that the putrefaction process could have a significant impact on concentrations of 4-MMC and BZP in post-mortem cases involving putrefied remains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Wenholz
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Susan Luong
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Morgan Philp
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Shari L Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Barbara H Stuart
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Olaf H Drummer
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University and Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia
| | - Shanlin Fu
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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22
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MDMA induces cardiac contractile dysfunction through autophagy upregulation and lysosome destabilization in rats. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2014; 1842:691-700. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2014.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Revised: 12/26/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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23
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Zaretsky DV, Zaretskaia MV, Durant PJ, Rusyniak DE. Inhibition of the dorsomedial hypothalamus, but not the medullary raphe pallidus, decreases hyperthermia and mortality from MDMA given in a warm environment. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2014; 2:e00031. [PMID: 24765530 PMCID: PMC3994179 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The central mechanisms through which MDMA mediates life-threatening hyperthermia when taken in a warm environment are not well described. It is assumed that MDMA alters normal thermoregulatory circuits resulting in increased heat production through interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) and decreased heat dissipation through cutaneous vasoconstriction. We studied the role of the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) and medullary raphe pallidus (mRPa) in mediating iBAT, tail blood flow, and locomotor effects produced by MDMA. Rats were instrumented with guide cannulas targeting either the DMH or the mRPa-brain regions involved in regulating iBAT and cutaneous vascular beds. In all animals, core temperature and locomotion were recorded with surgically implanted telemetric transmitters; and additionally either iBAT temperature (via telemetric transmitter) or tail artery blood flow (via tail artery Doppler cuff) were also recorded. Animals were placed in an environmental chamber at 32°C and microinjected with either control or the GABA agonist muscimol (80pmol) followed by an intravenous injection of saline or MDMA (7.5 mg kg-1). To prevent undue suffering, a core temperature of 41°C was chosen as the surrogate marker of mortality. Inhibition of the DMH, but not the mRPa, prevented mortality and attenuated hyperthermia and locomotion. Inhibition of either the DMH or the mRPa did not affect iBAT temperature increases or tail blood flow decreases. While MDMA increases iBAT thermogenesis and decreases heat dissipation through cutaneous vasoconstriction, thermoregulatory brain regions known to mediate these effects are not involved. Rather, the finding that inhibiting the DMH decreases both locomotion and body temperature suggests that locomotion may be a key central contributor to MDMA-evoked hyperthermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry V Zaretsky
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Maria V Zaretskaia
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Pamela J Durant
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Daniel E Rusyniak
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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24
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Swerts S, Van Gasse A, Leysen J, Faber M, Sabato V, Bridts CH, Jorens PG, De Clerck LS, Ebo DG. Allergy to illicit drugs and narcotics. Clin Exp Allergy 2014; 44:307-18. [DOI: 10.1111/cea.12177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Revised: 05/30/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Swerts
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - A. Van Gasse
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - J. Leysen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - M. Faber
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - V. Sabato
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - C. H. Bridts
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - P. G. Jorens
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Clinical Pharmacology/Toxicology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - L. S. De Clerck
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
| | - D. G. Ebo
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science; Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology; University Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital; Antwerpen Belgium
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25
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Cadet JL, Bisagno V, Milroy CM. Neuropathology of substance use disorders. Acta Neuropathol 2014; 127:91-107. [PMID: 24292887 PMCID: PMC7453825 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-013-1221-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Addictions to licit and illicit drugs are chronic relapsing brain disorders that affect circuits that regulate reward, motivation, memory, and decision-making. Drug-induced pathological changes in these brain regions are associated with characteristic enduring behaviors that continue despite adverse biopsychosocial consequences. Repeated exposure to these substances leads to egocentric behaviors that focus on obtaining the drug by any means and on taking the drug under adverse psychosocial and medical conditions. Addiction also includes craving for the substances and, in some cases, involvement in risky behaviors that can cause death. These patterns of behaviors are associated with specific cognitive disturbances and neuroimaging evidence for brain dysfunctions in a diverse population of drug addicts. Postmortem studies have also revealed significant biochemical and/or structural abnormalities in some addicted individuals. The present review provides a summary of the evidence that has accumulated over the past few years to implicate brain dysfunctions in the varied manifestations of drug addiction. We thus review data on cerebrovascular alterations, brain structural abnormalities, and postmortem studies of patients who abuse cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, heroin, and "bath salts". We also discuss potential molecular, biochemical, and cellular bases for the varied clinical presentations of these patients. Elucidation of the biological bases of addiction will help to develop better therapeutic approaches to these patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Lud Cadet
- NIDA Intramural Research Program, Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIDA/NIH/DHHS, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA,
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26
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Kwack SJ, Yoon KS, Lim SK, Gwak HM, Kim JY, Um YM, Lee JD, Hyeon JH, Kim YJ, Kim HS, Lee BM. A one-generation reproductive toxicity study of 3,4-methylenedioxy-n-methamphetamine (MDMA, Ecstasy), an amphetamine derivative, in C57BL/6 mice. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2014; 77:1431-1442. [PMID: 25343292 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2014.951759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) is an amphetamine derivative and is a popular type of drug that is abused due to its effects on the central nervous system (CNS), including alertness and euphoria. However, life-threatening (brain edema, heart failure, and coma) and fatal hyperthermia sometimes occur in some individuals taking MDMA. In a one-generation reproductive toxicity study, the potential toxicity of chronic exposure of MDMA was investigated on the reproductive capabilities of parental mice (F0), as well as the survival/development of their subsequent offspring (F1). Male and female C57BL/6 mice were administered orally MDMA at 0, 1.25, 5 or 20 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) throughout the study, beginning at the premating period, through mating, gestation, and lactation periods. MDMA did not produce any apparent clinical signs in F0 or F1 mice, and produced no significant changes in body weight, feed/water intake, or organ weights. In contrast, administration of MDMA produced external abnormalities in fetuses, stillbirth and labored delivery, and diminished viability and weaning indices in offspring, but these data were not significant. In addition, physical development of F1 mice was not markedly influenced by MDMA treatment. Nonetheless, serum biochemistry markers showed that levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were markedly elevated in a dose-dependent manner from 5 mg and higher MDMA/kg b.w., whereas levels of triglycerides (TG), potassium (K), and uric acid (UA) were reduced. Data suggest that MDMA may exert a weak reproductive and developmental toxicity, and the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of MDMA is estimated to be 1.25 mg/kg b.w./d.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Jun Kwack
- a Department of Biochemistry and Health Science , College of Natural Sciences, Changwon National University , Changwon , Gyeongnam , South Korea
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27
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Dias da Silva D, Silva E, Carmo H. Cytotoxic effects of amphetamine mixtures in primary hepatocytes are severely aggravated under hyperthermic conditions. Toxicol In Vitro 2013; 27:1670-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2013.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2013] [Revised: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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28
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Halpin LE, Collins SA, Yamamoto BK. Neurotoxicity of methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. Life Sci 2013; 97:37-44. [PMID: 23892199 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphetamines are a class of psychostimulant drugs that are widely abused for their stimulant, euphoric, empathogenic and hallucinogenic properties. Many of these effects result from acute increases in dopamine and serotonin neurotransmission. Subsequent to these acute effects, methamphetamine and 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) produce persistent damage to dopamine and serotonin nerve terminals. This review summarizes the numerous interdependent mechanisms including excitotoxicity, mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress that have been demonstrated to contribute to this damage. Emerging non-neuronal mechanisms by which the drugs may contribute to monoaminergic terminal damage, as well as the neuropsychiatric consequences of this terminal damage are also presented. Methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) have similar chemical structures and pharmacologic properties compared to other abused substances including cathinone (khat), as well as a relatively new class of novel synthetic amphetamines known as 'bath salts' that have gained popularity among drug abusers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Halpin
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Stuart A Collins
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Bryan K Yamamoto
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA.
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29
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Dias da Silva D, Carmo H, Lynch A, Silva E. An insight into the hepatocellular death induced by amphetamines, individually and in combination: the involvement of necrosis and apoptosis. Arch Toxicol 2013; 87:2165-85. [PMID: 23820845 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-013-1082-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The liver is a vulnerable target for amphetamine toxicity, but the mechanisms involved in the drug's hepatotoxicity remain poorly understood. The purpose of the current research was to characterize the mode of death elicited by four amphetamines and to evaluate whether their combination triggered similar mechanisms in immortalized human HepG2 cells. The obtained data revealed a time- and temperature-dependent mortality of HepG2 cells exposed to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy; 1.3 mM), methamphetamine (3 mM), 4-methylthioamphetamine (0.5 mM) and D-amphetamine (1.7 mM), alone or combined (1.6 mM mixture). At physiological temperature (37 °C), 24-h exposures caused HepG2 death preferentially by apoptosis, while a rise to 40.5 °C favoured necrosis. ATP levels remained unaltered when the drugs where tested at normothermia, but incubation at 40.5 °C provoked marked ATP depletion for all treatments. Further investigations on the apoptotic mechanisms triggered by the drugs (alone or combined) showed a decline in BCL-2 and BCL- XL mRNA levels, with concurrent upregulation of BAX, BIM, PUMA and BID genes. Elevation of Bax, cleaved Bid, Puma, Bak and Bim protein levels was also seen. To the best of our knowledge, Puma, Bim and Bak have never been linked with the toxicity induced by amphetamines. Time-dependent caspase-3/-7 activation, but not mitochondrial membrane potential (∆ψm) disruption, also mediated amphetamine-induced apoptosis. The cell dismantling was confirmed by poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase proteolysis. Overall, for all evaluated parameters, no relevant differences were detected between individual amphetamines and the mixture (all tested at equieffective cytotoxic concentrations), suggesting that the mode of action of the amphetamines in combination does not deviate from the mode of action of the drugs individually, when eliciting HepG2 cell death.
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30
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da Silva DD, Silva E, Carmo H. Combination effects of amphetamines under hyperthermia - the role played by oxidative stress. J Appl Toxicol 2013; 34:637-50. [PMID: 23765447 DOI: 10.1002/jat.2889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Rise in body temperature is a life-threatening consequence of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) abuse. We evaluated the impact of hyperthermia on the cytotoxicity of combinations of MDMA and three other amphetamines, often co-ingested. For this, Hep G2 cells were exposed to MDMA, d-amphetamine, methamphetamine and 4-methylthioamphetamine, individually or combined, at 40.5 °C. The results were compared with normothermia data (37.0 °C). Mixture additivity expectations were calculated by independent action and concentration addition (CA) models. To delineate the mechanism(s) underlying the elicited effects, a range of stress endpoints was evaluated, including quantification of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), lipid peroxidation, reduced/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG), ATP and mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) changes. Our data show that, in hyperthermia, amphetamines acted additively and mixture effects were accurately predicted by CA. At 40.5 °C, even slight increases in the concentrations of each drug/mixture promoted significant rises in cytotoxicity, which quickly shifted from roughly undetectable to maximal mortality. Additionally, the increase of RNS/ROS production, decrease of GSH, ATP depletion and mitochondrial impairment were exacerbated under hyperthermia. Importantly, when equieffective cytotoxic concentrations of the mixture and individual amphetamines were compared for all tested stress endpoints, mixture effects did not deviate from those elicited by individual treatments, suggesting that these amphetamines have a similar mode of action, which is not altered in combination. Concluding, our data indicate that amphetamine mixtures produce deleterious effects, even when individual drugs are combined at negligible concentrations. These effects are strongly exacerbated in hyperthermia, emphasizing the potential increased risks of ecstasy intake, especially when hyperthermia occurs concurrently with polydrug abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Dias da Silva
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal; Institute for the Environment, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, UK; REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
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Zhuo L, Liu Q, Liu L, Sun TY, Wang RS, Qu GQ, Liu Q, Liu Y, Ren L. Roles of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-induced alteration of connexin43 and intracellular Ca(2+) oscillation in its cardiotoxicity. Toxicology 2013; 310:61-72. [PMID: 23747752 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2013.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Revised: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Although it is well known that 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) can cause various cardiovascular abnormalities and even sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia, whether it has any effect on myocardial gap junctions, which might be one of the targets mediating MDMA-induced cardiotoxicity, remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that MDMA may affect the myocardial gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) and induce cardiac dysrhythmia. METHOD (1) In vivo study: adult rats were treated with a single dose MDMA administration (20mg/kg, i.p.). Electrocardiogram detection and immunohistochemical analysis were performed to evaluate cardiac function and expression of Cx43, respectively; (2) in vitro study: cultured ventricular myocytes of neonatal rats were treated with MDMA (10, 100, 1000μmol/L) for 1h. Western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were performed to investigate the total Cx43 mRNA expression. Immunofluorescent analysis was used to evaluate the amount of junctional Cx43. The phosphorylation status of Cx43 at site Ser368 and intracellular Ca(2+) oscillation were also studied. RESULTS Obvious changes in electrocardiographic patterns were found in rats following MDMA administration. They were characterized by prolonged QRS duration associated with increased amplitude of QRS complex. The heart rates in treated rats were significantly decreased compared to the rats in the control group. The immunohistochemical findings revealed a significant decrease in Cx43 expression. The in vitro study also showed a marked decline in total Cx43 protein associated with reduction of Cx43 mRNA, whereas the phosphorylated Cx43 at Ser368 was increased. Decrease of junctional Cx43 was found correlated with reduction in N-cadherin induced by high concentration of MDMA. Additionally, confocal microscopy findings revealed alteration of intracellular calcium oscillation patterns characterized by high frequency and increasing influx Ca(2+). CONCLUSIONS MDMA reduces expression of cardiac gap junction protein Cx43. The increase of phosphorylation status of Cx43 at Ser368 induced by MDMA is attributed, at least in part, to the Ca(2+)-dependent regulation of protein kinase C (PKC) activity. Our findings provide first evidence of MDMA-mediated changes in those cardiac gap junctions that may underlie MDMA-induced cardiac arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luo Zhuo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
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Mixtures of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy) and its major human metabolites act additively to induce significant toxicity to liver cells when combined at low, non-cytotoxic concentrations. J Appl Toxicol 2013; 34:618-27. [PMID: 23670916 DOI: 10.1002/jat.2885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 03/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Taniguchi M, Yamamoto Y, Nishi K. Comparative <i>in Vitro</i> Studies of the Metabolism of Six 4-Substituted Methamphetamines and Their Inhibition of Cytochrome P450 2D6 by GC-MS with Trifluoroacetyl Derivatization. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/ajac.2013.44022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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The risky cocktail: what combination effects can we expect between ecstasy and other amphetamines? Arch Toxicol 2012; 87:111-22. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-012-0929-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 08/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Abstract
There have been increasing reports in the popular and scientific media of the use of drugs called “Bath Salts”. These drugs have nothing to do with ordinary bath salts but are synthetic ring substituted cathinones. The main drugs encountered are mephedrone, methylone and 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV). Most reports involve the drug mephedrone, which has been popular in Europe but “Bath Salt” cases are also seen in North America. These drugs have sympathomimetic effects and the reported deaths have had similar histories to other stimulant drugs. This review examines the use of “Bath Salts”, particularly mephedrone and its clinical effects and toxicology, along with reported autopsy findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Milroy
- Forensic Pathologist with the Eastern Ontario Regional Forensic Pathology Unit, The Ottawa Hospital and The University of Ottawa in Ottawa, Canada
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Abstract
A variety of neuropathological findings has been described in illicit drug abusers. The majority of these alterations result from the consequences of hypoxia-ischemia and from cerebrovascular diseases. Within the last few years, widespread morphological alterations of the cellular elements of the brain have been detected. These changes consist of neuronal loss, a numerical reduction of astrocytes, widespread axonal damage with concomitant microglial activation and reactive and degenerative changes of the cerebral microvessels. Based on various studies there is also concern that drug abusers develop neurodegeneration or Parkinsonism as they age. However, whether or to what extent neurodegeneration occurs in human drug abusers remains to be established. In the present paper a brief overview on the neuropathological changes in drug abuse is presented for the forensic pathologist/toxi-cologist with reference to the most pertinent literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Büttner
- Forensic Pathology and the Director and Chair of the Institute of Legal Medicine at the Medical University of Rostock, Germany. Ethical Commission at the Medical University of Rostock
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Hoggett K, McCoubrie D, Fatovich DM. Ecstasy-induced acute coronary syndrome: Something to rave about. Emerg Med Australas 2012; 24:339-42. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-6723.2012.01542.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Carvalho M, Carmo H, Costa VM, Capela JP, Pontes H, Remião F, Carvalho F, Bastos MDL. Toxicity of amphetamines: an update. Arch Toxicol 2012; 86:1167-231. [PMID: 22392347 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-012-0815-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 258] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2012] [Accepted: 02/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Amphetamines represent a class of psychotropic compounds, widely abused for their stimulant, euphoric, anorectic, and, in some cases, emphathogenic, entactogenic, and hallucinogenic properties. These compounds derive from the β-phenylethylamine core structure and are kinetically and dynamically characterized by easily crossing the blood-brain barrier, to resist brain biotransformation and to release monoamine neurotransmitters from nerve endings. Although amphetamines are widely acknowledged as synthetic drugs, of which amphetamine, methamphetamine, and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) are well-known examples, humans have used natural amphetamines for several millenniums, through the consumption of amphetamines produced in plants, namely cathinone (khat), obtained from the plant Catha edulis and ephedrine, obtained from various plants in the genus Ephedra. More recently, a wave of new amphetamines has emerged in the market, mainly constituted of cathinone derivatives, including mephedrone, methylone, methedrone, and buthylone, among others. Although intoxications by amphetamines continue to be common causes of emergency department and hospital admissions, it is frequent to find the sophism that amphetamine derivatives, namely those appearing more recently, are relatively safe. However, human intoxications by these drugs are increasingly being reported, with similar patterns compared to those previously seen with classical amphetamines. That is not surprising, considering the similar structures and mechanisms of action among the different amphetamines, conferring similar toxicokinetic and toxicological profiles to these compounds. The aim of the present review is to give an insight into the pharmacokinetics, general mechanisms of biological and toxicological actions, and the main target organs for the toxicity of amphetamines. Although there is still scarce knowledge from novel amphetamines to draw mechanistic insights, the long-studied classical amphetamines-amphetamine itself, as well as methamphetamine and MDMA, provide plenty of data that may be useful to predict toxicological outcome to improvident abusers and are for that reason the main focus of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia Carvalho
- REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
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Radojevic N, Bjelogrlic B, Aleksic V, Rancic N, Samardzic M, Petkovic S, Savic S. Forensic aspects of water intoxication: four case reports and review of relevant literature. Forensic Sci Int 2012; 220:1-5. [PMID: 22306188 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2012.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Revised: 01/10/2012] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Water intoxication (WI) is a rare condition that originates from over-consumption of water, with a potentially fatal outcome. Increased water intake (polydipsia) is followed by urination of high amount of diluted urine (polyuria) which are the main initial symptoms of WI. We present four case reports of WI. Two of them are unusual pediatric clinical cases using medical documentation and police case files, one of which is related to child abuse, and the other to a psychiatric disorder. The other two cases are fatal adult cases submitted to autopsy from a psychiatric hospital. Also, we present a diagnostic algorithm for polydipsia and polyuria before death. WI is usually seen in patients with psychiatric disorders, victims of child abuse or torture, drug abusers or it can be iatrogenically induced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nemanja Radojevic
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Clinical Centre of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro.
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Fulceri F, Ferrucci M, Lenzi P, Soldani P, Bartalucci A, Paparelli A, Gesi M. MDMA (ecstasy) enhances loud noise-induced morphofunctional alterations in heart and adrenal gland. Microsc Res Tech 2011; 74:874-87. [PMID: 23939676 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20971] [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: 09/30/2010] [Accepted: 10/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Noise is an environmental stressor increasingly more present in modern life and, in particular, in a variety of recreational contexts. The aim of this work is to show the effects of noise on the myocardium and adrenal gland, through a careful review of the literature dealing with the peripheral effects of noise exposure in experimental and clinical studies. Noise induces adverse effects in human health, principally involving the cardiovascular and autonomic nervous systems, and the endocrine apparatus. Several factors in recreational environments potentially worsen the effects induced by loud noise. Among these, the intake of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is frequently associated with noise exposure in recreational situations, because of its high compliance within social and relaxation settings. For this reason, MDMA is defined as a club drug--as its intake by young people often occurs in association with other factors, such as aggregation, high temperatures, and noise. It is known that self-administration of MDMA by humans causes severe toxicity. In particular, the myocardium is affected early after MDMA intake--resulting in tachycardia, hypertension, and arrhythmia. Furthermore, MDMA alters the activity of the adrenal glands by elevating catecholamines and corticosterone levels. This review shows that combining MDMA and loud noise exposure potentiates the effects that are produced by each single stimulant alone as seen in experimental animal models. The convergence of the effects of prolonged loud noise exposure and the consumption of MDMA on the same system might explain the sudden fatal events that happen in recreational situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Fulceri
- Department of Human Morphology and Applied Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Banks ML, Sprague JE. From Bench to Bedside: Understanding the Science behind the Pharmacologic Management of MDMA- and other Sympathomimetic-Mediated Hyperthermia. J Pharm Technol 2011. [DOI: 10.1177/875512251102700305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the scientific rationale and efficacy of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments for sympathomimetic-induced hyperthermia and related sequelae. Data Sources: Literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1940-September 2010) using the terms MDMA [3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine], methamphetamine, toxicity, and hyperthermia. In addition, reference citations from identified publications were reviewed. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All articles written in English identified from data sources were evaluated. Data Synthesis: The treatment of sympathomimetic-induced hyperthermia is a challenging problem for health-care professionals. The lack of clinical trials further complicates the development of evidence-based treatment algorithms. Preclinical studies have mostly been with the sympathomimetic MDMA and have demonstrated a reversal of MDMA-induced hyperthermia with a mixed serotonin 5-HT1A agonist/5-HT2A antagonist or mixed α1- and β1,2,3-adrenergic receptor antagonists. Conclusions: Because of the nature by which patients are exposed to these agents, therapeutic interventions for sympathomimetic-mediated hyperthermia still lack evidence from clinical trials with human subjects. Pharmacologic treatments that should be avoided are antipyretics and the ryanodine receptor antagonist dantrolene. Promising future therapies may involve mixed 5-HT1A agonist/5-HT2A antagonists such as the atypical antipsychotic olanzapine, or mixed α1- and β1,2,3-adrenergic receptor antagonists such as carvedilol, as current preclinical research suggests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew L Banks
- MATTHEW L BANKS PharmD PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Jon E Sprague
- JON E SPRAGUE RPh PhD, Professor of Pharmacology and Dean, The Raabe College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH
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Yang PB, Atkins KD, Dafny N. Behavioral sensitization and cross-sensitization between methylphenidate amphetamine, and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in female SD rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2011; 661:72-85. [PMID: 21549116 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2011.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Revised: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The psychostimulants amphetamine and methylphenidate (MPD/Ritalin) are the drugs most often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition, students of all ages take these drugs to improve academic performance but also abuse them for pleasurable enhancement. In addition, other psychostimulants such as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA/ecstasy) are used/abused for similar objectives. One of the experimental markers for the potential of a drug to produce dependence is its ability to induce behavioral sensitization and cross sensitization with other drugs of abuse. The objective of this study is to use identical experimental protocols and behavioral assays to compare in female rats the effects of amphetamine, MPD and MDMA on locomotor activity and to determine if they induce behavioral sensitization and/or cross sensitization with each other. The main findings of this study are as follows: (1) acute amphetamine, MPD and MDMA all elicited increases in locomotor activity; (2) chronic administration of an intermediate dose of amphetamine or MPD elicited behavioral sensitization; (3) chronic administration of MDMA elicited behavioral sensitization in some animals and behavioral tolerance in others; (4) cross sensitization between MPD and amphetamine was observed; and (5) MDMA did not show either cross sensitization or cross tolerance with amphetamine. In conclusion, these results suggest that MDMA acts by different mechanisms compared to MPD and amphetamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela B Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine-School of Medicine, 92697, United States
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“Ecstasy” associated deaths: what is a fatal concentration ? Analysis of a case series. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2011; 7:248-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s12024-010-9220-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
Heatstroke is the most severe form of heat-related disorders that include mild heat intolerance, heat exhaustion and heat stress. The incidence of heat-related disorders is increasing due to several factors that include climate change, co-morbidities and drug usage. Patients with heatstroke present with a core body temperature above 40°C, multiorgan dysfunction and central nervous system disorder. The pathogenesis of heatstroke is not fully understood; however, heat-shock proteins, inflammatory cytokines and their modulators have been implicated. The clinical biochemistry laboratory plays an important role in the management of patients with heatstroke. Biochemical findings in patients with heatstroke include elevated urea, creatinine, cardiac and skeletal muscle enzymes, myoglobin and troponin. There is also biochemical evidence of metabolic acidosis, respiratory alkalosis, hepatic injury with elevated enzyme levels as well as abnormal hematological and coagulation indices. This review article aims at increasing awareness of the biochemical changes seen in patients with heatstroke and their possible role in prognosis and in elucidating the pathogenesis of heatstroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim A Hashim
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9073, USA
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Ecstasy-induced myocardial infarction in a teenager: rare complication of a widely used illicit drug. Clin Res Cardiol 2010; 99:849-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00392-010-0205-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2010] [Accepted: 08/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Favrod-Coune T, Broers B. The Health Effect of Psychostimulants: A Literature Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2010; 3:2333-2361. [PMID: 27713356 PMCID: PMC4036656 DOI: 10.3390/ph3072333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Accepted: 07/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prevalence of psychostimulant use is high, and raising in several countries. Nicotine is the legal stimulant causing the most important public health impact. Cocaine ranks among the most used illicit substances after cannabis. Stimulant medications are frequently misused. Psychostimulants can lead to addiction, have physical, psychological and social health consequences and can induce a great disease burden. The aim of the present article is to provide a literature review on the health effects of stimulants as potential drugs of abuse. It will cover essentially cocaine, amphetamines and its derivatives (including methamphetamines and 3-4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ecstasy), nicotine, caffeine and khat, and touch upon the issues of prescribed substances (anti-depressants, weight control medications, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder medications, hypersomniac disorder). Their pharmacology, addictive potential, health consequences and treatment will be discussed. We used Medline for the literature review from 1990 to the date of this review, and mention the findings of human and animal studies (the latter only if they are of clinical relevance).
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry Favrod-Coune
- Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals 4, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil,1211 Geneva 14, Switzerland.
| | - Barbara Broers
- Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals 4, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil,1211 Geneva 14, Switzerland.
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Liang R, Zhou Y, Wu F, Zhou C, Zhao X, Zhang M, Tian X, Zhu B. Effect of methamphetamine on potassium and L-type calcium currents in rat ventricular myocytes. Toxicol Mech Methods 2010; 20:458-65. [DOI: 10.3109/15376516.2010.497979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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50
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Vanattou-Saïfoudine N, McNamara R, Harkin A. Caffeine promotes dopamine D1 receptor-mediated body temperature, heart rate and behavioural responses to MDMA ('ecstasy'). Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2010; 211:15-25. [PMID: 20437223 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-010-1864-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2010] [Accepted: 04/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Caffeine exacerbates the acute toxicity of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, 'ecstasy') in rats characterised by hyperthermia, tachycardia and lethality. Depletion of central catecholamine stores and dopamine D(1) receptor blockade have been reported to attenuate the ability of caffeine to exacerbate MDMA-induced hyperthermia. OBJECTIVES Here, we investigate whether dopamine D(1) and D(2) receptors mediate the effects of caffeine on MDMA-induced changes in body temperature, heart rate and locomotor activity. METHODS All parameters were recorded continuously in individually housed rats using bioradiotelemetry from 1 h prior to 4 h following caffeine (10 mg/kg, s.c.) and/or MDMA (10 mg/kg, s.c.) administration. RESULTS Co-administration of caffeine with MDMA provoked a switch from MDMA-induced hypothermia and bradycardia to hyperthermia and tachycardia without influencing MDMA-induced hyperlocomotion. Pre-treatment with a specific dopamine D(1/5) antagonist SCH 23390 (1 mg/kg) enhanced MDMA-induced hypothermia and blocked the ability of caffeine to provoke a switch from MDMA-induced hypothermia to hyperthermia. Furthermore, SCH 23390 blocked MDMA-induced hyperactivity and the ability of caffeine to promote a tachycardic response to MDMA. By contrast, pre-treatment with the selective D(2) antagonist, sulpiride (100 mg/kg) blocked MDMA-induced hypothermia, failed to influence the ability of caffeine to promote tachycardia whilst enhancing MDMA-induced hyperactivity. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight the importance of dopamine D(1) and D(2) receptors in shaping the behavioural and physiological response to MDMA and suggest that the ability of caffeine to provoke MDMA-induced toxicity is associated with the promotion of dopamine D(1) over D(2) receptor-related responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Vanattou-Saïfoudine
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College of Dublin, Dublin, 2, Ireland
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