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Gil-Martins E, Cagide-Fagín F, Martins D, Borer A, Barbosa DJ, Fernandes C, Chavarria D, Remião F, Borges F, Silva R. Mechanistic Insights into the Neurotoxicity of 2,5-Dimethoxyphenethylamines (2C) and Corresponding N-(2-methoxybenzyl)phenethylamine (NBOMe) Drugs. J Xenobiot 2024; 14:772-797. [PMID: 38921653 PMCID: PMC11204507 DOI: 10.3390/jox14020044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Substituted phenethylamines including 2C (2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamines) and NBOMe (N-(2-methoxybenzyl)phenethylamines) drugs are potent psychoactive substances with little to no knowledge available on their toxicity. In the present in vitro study, we explored the mechanisms underlying the neurotoxicity of six substituted phenethylamines: 2C-T-2, 2C-T-4, 2C-T-7 and their corresponding NBOMes. These drugs were synthesized and chemically characterized, and their cytotoxicity (0-1000 μM) was evaluated in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells and primary rat cortical cultures, by the NR uptake and MTT reduction assays. In differentiated SH-SY5Y cells, mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular ATP and calcium levels, reactive oxygen species production, and intracellular total glutathione levels were also evaluated. All the tested drugs exhibited concentration-dependent cytotoxic effects towards differentiated SH-SY5Y cells and primary rat cortical cultures. The NBOMe drugs presented higher cytotoxicity than their counterparts, which correlates with the drug's lipophilicity. These cytotoxic effects were associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, evident through mitochondrial membrane depolarization and lowered intracellular ATP levels. Intracellular calcium imbalance was observed for 2C-T-7 and 25T7-NBOMe, implying a disrupted calcium regulation. Although reactive species levels remained unchanged, a reduction in intracellular total GSH content was observed. Overall, these findings contribute to a deeper understanding of these drugs, shedding light on the mechanisms underpinning their neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Gil-Martins
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-M.); (A.B.); (F.R.)
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (C.F.); (D.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Fernando Cagide-Fagín
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (C.F.); (D.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Daniel Martins
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (C.F.); (D.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Ana Borer
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-M.); (A.B.); (F.R.)
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniel José Barbosa
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences-CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal;
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Fernandes
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (C.F.); (D.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Daniel Chavarria
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (C.F.); (D.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Fernando Remião
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-M.); (A.B.); (F.R.)
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernanda Borges
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (C.F.); (D.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Renata Silva
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.G.-M.); (A.B.); (F.R.)
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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2
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Pelletier R, Gicquel T, Carvelli J, Balaz P, Pelissier-Alicot AL, Morel I, Bottinelli C, Solas C, Le Daré B, Fabresse N. Severe 25E-NBOH intoxication associated with MDPHP intake: a case report, metabolism study, and literature review. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:815-822. [PMID: 38117418 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03151-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
N-Benzylphenethylamine derivatives are 5-HT2A receptor agonists with hallucinogenic properties, including NBOMe (N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)ethan-1-amine) and NBOH (2-(((2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)methyl)phenol). We reported here the case of a 23-year-old man who presented a serotoninergic syndrome and a loss of consciousness following the consumption of a powder labelled as 25I-NBOH. Toxicological analyses of biological samples were carried out using a liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry. Two new psychoactive substances were identified and confirmed with certified reference materials: 25E-NBOH (2-(((4-ethyl-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)methyl)phenol) and MDPHP (1-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)hexan-1-one). Pharmaceuticals administered to the patient during his medical care were found in plasma and urine. 25E-NBOH and MDPHP concentrations were respectively at 2.3 ng/mL and 3.4 ng/mL in plasma, and 25.7 ng/mL and 30.5 ng/mL in urine. 25I-NBOH (2-(((4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)methyl)phenol) was specifically searched in both samples and was not detected. These results are discussed along with a literature review on human cases of exposure to N-benzylphenethylamine derivatives. Using molecular networking approach, we propose the first 25E-NBOH metabolism study using authentic biological samples (plasma and urine). We described seven metabolites (M1 to M7), including two phase I (m/z 330.172; m/z 288.160) and five phase II metabolites (m/z 464.191, m/z 478.207, m/z 492.223, m/z 508.218; m/z 396.156). The M6 (m/z 492.223) was the most intense ion detected in plasma and urine and could be proposed as a relevant 25E-NBOH consumption marker. Overall, we described an original case of 25E-NBOH poisoning and identified metabolites that could potentially be used as consumption markers to detect 25E-NBOH intoxications with a higher confidence level and probably a longer detection window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Pelletier
- INSERM, INRAE, CHU Rennes, Institut NuMeCan (Nutrition, Metabolism and Cancer), PREVITOX Network, F-35033, Rennes, France.
- Rennes University Hospital, Clinical and Forensic Toxicology Laboratory, F-35033, Rennes, France.
| | - Thomas Gicquel
- INSERM, INRAE, CHU Rennes, Institut NuMeCan (Nutrition, Metabolism and Cancer), PREVITOX Network, F-35033, Rennes, France
- Rennes University Hospital, Clinical and Forensic Toxicology Laboratory, F-35033, Rennes, France
| | - Julien Carvelli
- AP-HM, DepaICMrtment of Intensive Care, Réanimation des Urgences, Medicine Intensive & Reanimation, Timone University Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Balaz
- Bataillon des Marins Pompiers, Groupement Santé, Service Médical d'Urgence, 9 Boulevard de Strasbourg, 13233, Marseille Cedex 20, France
| | - Anne-Laure Pelissier-Alicot
- Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, INSERM, INMED UMR 901, La Timone University Hospital, Legal Medicine Department, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Isabelle Morel
- INSERM, INRAE, CHU Rennes, Institut NuMeCan (Nutrition, Metabolism and Cancer), PREVITOX Network, F-35033, Rennes, France
- Rennes University Hospital, Clinical and Forensic Toxicology Laboratory, F-35033, Rennes, France
| | | | - Caroline Solas
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, La Timone University Hospital, 264 rue Saint Pierre, 13385, Marseille Cedex 5, France
| | - Brendan Le Daré
- INSERM, INRAE, CHU Rennes, Institut NuMeCan (Nutrition, Metabolism and Cancer), PREVITOX Network, F-35033, Rennes, France
- Rennes University Hospital, Pharmacy department, F-35033, Rennes, France
| | - Nicolas Fabresse
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, La Timone University Hospital, 264 rue Saint Pierre, 13385, Marseille Cedex 5, France
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Economic and Social Sciences of Health and Medical Information Processing, Marseille, France
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3
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Wojtas A, Gołembiowska K. Molecular and Medical Aspects of Psychedelics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:241. [PMID: 38203411 PMCID: PMC10778977 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Psychedelics belong to the oldest psychoactive drugs. They arouse recent interest due to their therapeutic applications in the treatment of major depressive disorder, substance use disorder, end-of-life anxiety,= and anxiety symptoms, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. In this review, the current state of preclinical research on the mechanism of action, neurotoxicity, and behavioral impact of psychedelics is summarized. The effect of selective 5-HT2A receptor agonists, 25I- and 25B-NBOMe, after acute and repeated administration is characterized and compared with the effects of a less selective drug, psilocybin. The data show a significant effect of NBOMes on glutamatergic, dopaminergic, serotonergic, and cholinergic neurotransmission in the frontal cortex, striatum, and nucleus accumbens. The increases in extracellular levels of neurotransmitters were not dose-dependent, which most likely resulted from the stimulation of the 5-HT2A receptor and subsequent activation of the 5-HT2C receptors. This effect was also observed in the wet dog shake test and locomotor activity. Chronic administration of NBOMes elicited rapid development of tolerance, genotoxicity, and activation of microglia. Acute treatment with psilocybin affected monoaminergic and aminoacidic neurotransmitters in the frontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, and hippocampus but not in the amygdala. Psilocybin exhibited anxiolytic properties resulting from intensification of GABAergic neurotransmission. The data indicate that NBOMes as selective 5-HT2A agonists exert a significant effect on neurotransmission and behavior of rats while also inducing oxidative DNA damage. In contrast to NBOMes, the effects induced by psilocybin suggest a broader therapeutic index of this drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Krystyna Gołembiowska
- Unit II, Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland;
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4
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Herian M, Świt P. 25X-NBOMe compounds - chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. A comprehensive review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2023; 53:15-33. [PMID: 37115704 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2194907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Recently, a growing number of reports have indicated a positive effect of hallucinogenic-based therapies in different neuropsychiatric disorders. However, hallucinogens belonging to the group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) may produce high toxicity. NPS, due to their multi-receptors affinity, are extremely dangerous for the human body and mental health. An example of hallucinogens that have been lately responsible for many severe intoxications and deaths are 25X-NBOMes - N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-substituted phenethylamines, synthetic compounds with strong hallucinogenic properties. 25X-NBOMes exhibit a high binding affinity to serotonin receptors but also to dopamine, adrenergic and histamine receptors. Apart from their influence on perception, many case reports point out systemic and neurological poisoning with these compounds. In humans, the most frequent side effects are tachycardia, anxiety, hypertension and seizures. Moreover, preclinical studies confirm that 25X-NBOMes cause developmental impairments, cytotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity and changes in behavior of animals. Metabolism of NBOMes seems to be very complex and involves many metabolic pathways. This fact may explain the observed high toxicity. In addition, many analytical methods have been applied in order to identify these compounds and their metabolites. The presented review summarized the current knowledge about 25X-NBOMes, especially in the context of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paweł Świt
- Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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5
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Gerostamoulos D, Glowacki L, Pricone M, Crump K, Di Rago M, Joubert S, Lynch MJ, Woodford NW, Drummer OH. Fatal Intoxications from a Combination of 4-Fluoroamphetamine and 25C-NBOMe. J Anal Toxicol 2023; 47:191-196. [PMID: 35975553 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkac059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Six fatalities have occurred from the ingestion of a combination of new psychoactive substances (NPSs), 4-fluoroamphetamine (4FA) and 2-(4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine (25C-NBOMe) over a 9-month period. Four of these fatalities (one older female and three young males) were from direct adverse effects of drugs, and one each from a fall while being intoxicated and during restraint. All cases were subject to full postmortem examinations that included collection of femoral blood. The four drug-caused fatalities had postmortem blood concentrations for 4FA and 25C-NBOMe of 330-682 ng/L (median 417) and 1.4-12 ng/mL (median 4.3), respectively. The other two cases (both young males) where death was considered to have been caused indirectly by drug intoxication had 4FA and 25C-NBOMe postmortem concentrations of 21 and 123 ng/mL, and 1.8 and 4.5 ng/mL, respectively. None of these cases showed concentrations of drugs that suggested use of high recreational doses. In one drug-caused death, capsules and a brown powder obtained from the scene were found to contain a mixture of these two NPSs. With the exception of one drug-caused death, other drugs were detected; however, the effects of the two NPSs together were regarded as the primary triggers for the deaths. There were no consistent symptoms or pathology in these cases; however, agitation/aggression was observed in two cases prior to their collapse, with seizures in possibly three cases. Pulmonary and/or cerebral edema was noted in three cases. Potentially significant natural disease (a mildly enlarged heart) was only observed in one drug-caused case. These cases illustrate a possible increased risk of sudden death with this combination of drugs, both of which can elevate serotonin concentrations as well as act as strong stimulants. These cases also illustrate the difficulty in detecting NPS in cases where no prior information is available that might suggest their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Gerostamoulos
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Linda Glowacki
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Maria Pricone
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Kerryn Crump
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Matthew Di Rago
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Samantha Joubert
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Matthew J Lynch
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Noel W Woodford
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Olaf H Drummer
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
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6
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Syrová K, Šíchová K, Danda H, Lhotková E, Jorratt P, Pinterová-Leca N, Vejmola Č, Olejníková-Ladislavová L, Hájková K, Kuchař M, Horáček J, Páleníček T. Acute pharmacological profile of 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe in male Wistar rats—pharmacokinetics, effects on behaviour and thermoregulation. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1120419. [PMID: 36969854 PMCID: PMC10033663 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1120419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction:N-2-methoxy-benzylated (“NBOMe”) analogues of phenethylamine are a group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) with reported strong psychedelic effects in sub-milligram doses linked to a number of severe intoxications, including fatal ones. In our present work, we provide a detailed investigation of pharmacokinetics and acute behavioural effects of 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe (2-(8-bromo-2,3,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo [1,2-b:4,5-b′]difuran-4-yl)-N-[(2-methoxybenzyl]ethan-1-amine), an analogue of popular psychedelic entactogen 2C-B (4-Bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine).Methods: All experiments were conducted on adult male Wistar rats. Pharmacokinetic parameters of 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe (1 mg/kg subcutaneously; s. c.) in blood serum and brain tissue were analysed over 24 h using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS). For examination of behavioural parameters in open field test (OFT) and prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle reaction (ASR), 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe (0.2, 1 and 5 mg/kg s. c.) was administered in two temporal onsets: 15 and 60 min after administration. Thermoregulatory changes were evaluated in individually and group-housed animals over 8 h following the highest dose used in behavioural experiments (5 mg/kg s. c.).Results: Peak drug concentrations were detected 30 and 60 min after the drug application in serum (28 ng/ml) and brain tissue (171 ng/g), respectively. The parental compound was still present in the brain 8 h after administration. Locomotor activity was dose-dependently reduced by the drug in both temporal testing onsets. ASR was also strongly disrupted in both temporal onsets, drug’s effect on PPI was weaker. 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe did not cause any significant thermoregulatory changes.Discussion: Our results suggest that 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe penetrates animal brain tissue in a relatively slow manner, induces significant inhibitory effects on motor performance, and attenuates sensorimotor gating. Its overall profile is similar to closely related analogue 2C-B and other NBOMe substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kateřina Syrová
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Klára Šíchová
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
| | - Hynek Danda
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Eva Lhotková
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
| | - Pascal Jorratt
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Nikola Pinterová-Leca
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Čestmír Vejmola
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Lucie Olejníková-Ladislavová
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Kateřina Hájková
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Tomáš Páleníček, ; Martin Kuchař,
| | - Jiří Horáček
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Páleníček
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Tomáš Páleníček, ; Martin Kuchař,
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7
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Demin KA, Kupriyanova OV, Shevyrin VA, Derzhavina KA, Krotova NA, Ilyin NP, Kolesnikova TO, Galstyan DS, Kositsyn YM, Khaybaev AAS, Seredinskaya MV, Dubrovskii Y, Sadykova RG, Nerush MO, Mor MS, Petersen EV, Strekalova T, Efimova EV, Kuvarzin SR, Yenkoyan KB, Bozhko DV, Myrov VO, Kolchanova SM, Polovian AI, Galumov GK, Kalueff AV. Acute behavioral and Neurochemical Effects of Novel N-Benzyl-2-Phenylethylamine Derivatives in Adult Zebrafish. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:1902-1922. [PMID: 35671176 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hallucinogenic drugs potently affect brain and behavior and have also recently emerged as potentially promising agents in pharmacotherapy. Complementing laboratory rodents, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a powerful animal model organism for screening neuroactive drugs, including hallucinogens. Here, we test a battery of ten novel N-benzyl-2-phenylethylamine (NBPEA) derivatives with the 2,4- and 3,4-dimethoxy substitutions in the phenethylamine moiety and the -OCH3, -OCF3, -F, -Cl, and -Br substitutions in the ortho position of the phenyl ring of the N-benzyl moiety, assessing their acute behavioral and neurochemical effects in the adult zebrafish. Overall, substitutions in the Overall, substitutions in the N-benzyl moiety modulate locomotion, and substitutions in the phenethylamine moiety alter zebrafish anxiety-like behavior, also affecting the brain serotonin and/or dopamine turnover. The 24H-NBOMe(F) and 34H-NBOMe(F) treatment also reduced zebrafish despair-like behavior. Computational analyses of zebrafish behavioral data by artificial intelligence identified several distinct clusters for these agents, including anxiogenic/hypolocomotor (24H-NBF, 24H-NBOMe, and 34H-NBF), behaviorally inert (34H-NBBr, 34H-NBCl, and 34H-NBOMe), anxiogenic/hallucinogenic-like (24H-NBBr, 24H-NBCl, and 24H-NBOMe(F)), and anxiolytic/hallucinogenic-like (34H-NBOMe(F)) drugs. Our computational analyses also revealed phenotypic similarity of the behavioral activity of some NBPEAs to that of selected conventional serotonergic and antiglutamatergic hallucinogens. In silico functional molecular activity modeling further supported the overlap of the drug targets for NBPEAs tested here and the conventional serotonergic and antiglutamatergic hallucinogens. Overall, these findings suggest potent neuroactive properties of several novel synthetic NBPEAs, detected in a sensitive in vivo vertebrate model system, the zebrafish, raising the possibility of their potential clinical use and abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Demin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Olga V Kupriyanova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Volga Region Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia.,Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia
| | - Vadim A Shevyrin
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology, Ural Federal University, 19 Mira Str., Ekaterinburg 620002, Russia
| | - Ksenia A Derzhavina
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Nataliya A Krotova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Nikita P Ilyin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Tatiana O Kolesnikova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Neurobiology Program, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sochi 354340, Russia
| | - David S Galstyan
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Granov Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Pesochny 197758, Russia
| | - Yurii M Kositsyn
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | | | - Maria V Seredinskaya
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Yaroslav Dubrovskii
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia.,Institute of Chemistry, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,St. Petersburg State Chemical Pharmaceutical University, St. Petersburg 197022, Russia
| | | | - Maria O Nerush
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | - Mikael S Mor
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Elena V Petersen
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Moscow 141701, Russia
| | | | - Evgeniya V Efimova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Savelii R Kuvarzin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Konstantin B Yenkoyan
- Neuroscience Laboratory, COBRAIN Center, M. Heratsi Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan AM 0025, Armenia.,COBRAIN Scientific Educational Center for Fundamental Brain Research, Yerevan AM 0025, Armenia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Allan V Kalueff
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.,Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia.,Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg 620075, Russia.,Granov Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Pesochny 197758, Russia.,Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Moscow 141701, Russia.,COBRAIN Scientific Educational Center for Fundamental Brain Research, Yerevan AM 0025, Armenia.,Scientific Research Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Novosibirsk, 630117, Russia
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8
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Novel Phenethylamines and Their Potential Interactions With Prescription Drugs: A Systematic Critical Review. Ther Drug Monit 2021; 42:271-281. [PMID: 32022784 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novel phenethylamines 4-fluoroamphetamine (4-FA) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B) fall in the top 10 most used new psychoactive substances (NPSs) among high-risk substance users. Various phenethylamines and NPS are also highly used in populations with mental disorders, depression, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Moreover, NPS use is highly prevalent among men and women with risky sexual behavior. Considering these specific populations and their frequent concurrent use of drugs, such as antidepressants, ADHD medication, and antiretrovirals, reports on potential interactions between these drugs, and phenethylamines 4-FA and 2C-B, were reviewed. METHODS The authors performed a systematic literature review on 4-FA and 2C-B interactions with antidepressants (citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, duloxetine, bupropion, venlafaxine, phenelzine, moclobemide, and tranylcypromine), ADHD medications (atomoxetine, dexamphetamine, methylphenidate, and modafinil), and antiretrovirals. RESULTS Limited literature exists on the pharmacokinetics and drug-drug interactions of 2C-B and 4-FA. Only one case report indicated a possible interaction between 4-FA and ADHD medication. Although pharmacokinetic interactions between 4-FA and prescription drugs remain speculative, their pharmacodynamic points toward interactions between 4-FA and ADHD medication and antidepressants. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of 2C-B also points toward such interactions, between 2C-B and prescription drugs such as antidepressants and ADHD medication. CONCLUSIONS A drug-drug (phenethylamine-prescription drug) interaction potential is anticipated, mainly involving monoamine oxidases for 2C-B and 4-FA, with monoamine transporters being more specific to 4-FA.
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9
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Abstract
Illicit drugs and substances of abuse are increasingly used by adults and teenagers, with novel substances constantly becoming available. Many substances can cause ocular effects or visually threatening conditions. Current literature informing eye-care practitioners on these effects is scant. The present scoping review reports the ocular effects of most commonly used drugs and substances of abuse in the teenage and adult populations of North America. Ovid MEDLINE and Ovid EMBASE databases were searched for publications from 1980 to 2019 regarding ocular effects of drug use. The selected papers regarded human subjects, in either teenage or adult population and included all types of studies, including case reports. Publications in English or in French were included. Exclusion criteria were publications about the use of prescriptions drugs, drug withdrawal, and publications about the use of alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis. Some 241 papers were retained and analysed. The use of various drugs and substances can lead to damage to structures throughout the eye, including but not limited to corneal conditions, glaucoma and other optic neuropathies, maculopathies and endophthalmitis. The data presented in this review may help guide clinicians in their diagnosis and treatment of certain ocular conditions, which could otherwise not be linked to drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Proulx
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Benoit Tousignant
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada.,School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada
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10
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Ordak M, Zmysłowska A, Bielski M, Rybak D, Tomaszewska M, Wyszomierska K, Kmiec A, Garlicka N, Zalewska M, Zalewski M, Nasierowski T, Muszynska E, Bujalska-Zadrozny M. Pharmacotherapy of Patients Taking New Psychoactive Substances: A Systematic Review and Analysis of Case Reports. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:669921. [PMID: 33967865 PMCID: PMC8102790 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.669921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, an increase in the frequency of hospitalizations of patients taking newer and newer psychoactive substances has been observed around the world. Each year, authors publish case reports of patients who consumed previously unknown NPS. Most publications of this type concern the period between 2014 and 2016. However, no publication systematically reviews the pharmacotherapy used in these cases. This study aims to review the case reports of patients taking NPS published between 2010 and 2019, as well as analyzing the pharmacotherapy used. Methods: We searched the Thomson (Web of Knowledge), PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, Scopus and Google Scholar databases. The search was performed using all possible combinations of the term "case report" describing the use of NPS, also referred to as designer medications, internet medications, research chemicals and herbal highs. Results: We analyzed 51 case reports on the intake of various types of NPS. Most of them (p < 0.001) concerned the use of synthetic cannabinoids (41.2%) and cathinones (31.4%). The pharmacotherapy applied primarily (p < 0.001) consisted of administering benzodiazepines to patients (62.7%), most of whom took only this group of medications (25.5%), followed by groups receiving benzodiazepines combined with neuroleptics (15.7%) and muscle relaxants (11.8%). Opioids were administered primarily to patients taking synthetic opioids (p < 0.001). Of the 5 cases of deaths from NPS reported in the literature, three relate specifically to the synthetic opioid MT-45. The later the time period, the more medications patients were administered (p = 0.02). Conclusion: In the pharmacotherapy for NPS poisoning, one should focus primarily on combating psychomotor agitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Ordak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zmysłowska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Miłosz Bielski
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Daniel Rybak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maja Tomaszewska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Wyszomierska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Kmiec
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Garlicka
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maria Zalewska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michal Zalewski
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Elzbieta Muszynska
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Magdalena Bujalska-Zadrozny
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Centre for Preclinical, Research and Technology (CePT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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11
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Okada T, Shioda K, Makiguchi A, Suda S. Risperidone and 5-HT2A Receptor Antagonists Attenuate and Reverse Cocaine-Induced Hyperthermia in Rats. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 23:811-820. [PMID: 32821948 PMCID: PMC7770520 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocaine (benzoylmethylecgonine) is one of the most widely used illegal psychostimulant drugs worldwide, and mortality from acute intoxication is increasing. Suppressing hyperthermia is effective in reducing cocaine-related mortality, but a definitive therapy has not yet been found. In this study, we assessed the ability of risperidone to attenuate acute cocaine-induced hyperthermia and delineated the mechanism of its action. METHODS Rats were injected i.p. with saline, risperidone, ketanserin, ritanserin, haloperidol, or SCH 23 390 before and after injection of cocaine (30 mg/kg) or with WAY-00 635, SB 206 553, or sulpiride before cocaine injection; thereafter, the rectal temperature was measured every 30 minutes for up to 4 hours. In vivo microdialysis was used to reveal the effect of risperidone on cocaine-induced elevation of dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and noradrenaline concentrations in the anterior hypothalamus. For post-administration experiments, saline or risperidone (0.5 mg/kg) were injected into rats, and cocaine (30 mg/kg) was injected 15 minutes later. For every 30 minutes thereafter, DA, 5-HT, and noradrenaline levels were measured for up to 240 minutes after cocaine administration. RESULTS Risperidone, 5-HT2A receptor antagonists, and D1 receptor antagonistic drugs prevented and reversed cocaine-induced hyperthermia. In contrast, receptor antagonists for 5-HT1A, 5-HT2B/2C, and D2 did not alter cocaine-induced hyperthermia. Risperidone treatment further attenuated cocaine-induced elevation of DA. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that risperidone attenuates cocaine-induced hyperthermia primarily by blocking the activities of the 5-HT2A and D1 receptors and may be potentially useful for treating cocaine-induced acute hyperthermia in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Okada
- Department of Psychiatry, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | | | - Akiko Makiguchi
- Department of Psychiatry, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.,Department of Psychiatry, Sano Kosei General Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shiro Suda
- Department of Psychiatry, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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12
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Clancy L, Philp M, Shimmon R, Fu S. Development and validation of a color spot test method for the presumptive detection of 25-NBOMe compounds. Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:929-943. [PMID: 32744773 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The great increase of new psychoactive substances over the past decade has substantially transformed the illicit drug industry to an ever-changing dynamic market. 25-NBOMe compounds are just one of these new substance groups that pose a public health risk in many countries around the world. These highly potent, hallucinogenic phenethylamines have previously been sold as "legal highs" or "synthetic LSD" and the necessity to rapidly identify their presence is crucial. While there are many laboratory-based analytical methods capable of identifying these compounds, the lack of presumptive test methods indicates the need for a specific and timely test that could be used in the field. Herein we outline the developed chemical spot test that can selectively identify the presence of 25-NBOMe compounds and related analogs through the reaction with a substituted benzoquinone reagent under basic conditions. This test method has been comprehensively validated showing a high level of selectivity, specificity, and precision with only two other illicit substances producing similar positive results as 25-NBOMe and few false-negative results seen. The working limit of detection was determined to be 225 μg and there was no cross-reactivity from potential adulterants of significance. This test has also been shown to work directly with blotter papers containing 25-NBOMe compounds, indicating no interference from this common matrix and the ability to differentiate these compounds from LSD. This method shows a high potential to be translated to a field compatible test that is simple, rapid, and selective for 25-NBOMe compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Clancy
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Morgan Philp
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Ronald Shimmon
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Shanlin Fu
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
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13
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Jones NS, Comparin JH. Interpol review of controlled substances 2016-2019. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2020; 2:608-669. [PMID: 33385148 PMCID: PMC7770462 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2020.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in controlled substances from 2016 to 2019 as a part of the 19th Interpol International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. The review papers are also available at the Interpol website at: https://www.interpol.int/content/download/14458/file/Interpol%20Review%20Papers%202019.pdf.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole S. Jones
- RTI International, Applied Justice Research Division, Center for Forensic Sciences, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 22709-2194, USA
| | - Jeffrey H. Comparin
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Special Testing and Research Laboratory, USA
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14
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Zawilska JB, Kacela M, Adamowicz P. NBOMes-Highly Potent and Toxic Alternatives of LSD. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:78. [PMID: 32174803 PMCID: PMC7054380 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, a new class of psychedelic compounds named NBOMe (or 25X-NBOMe) has appeared on the illegal drug market. NBOMes are analogs of the 2C family of phenethylamine drugs, originally synthesized by Alexander Shulgin, that contain a N-(2-methoxy)benzyl substituent. The most frequently reported drugs from this group are 25I-NBOMe, 25B-NBOMe, and 25C-NBOMe. NBOMe compounds are ultrapotent and highly efficacious agonists of serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors (Ki values in low nanomolar range) with more than 1000-fold selectivity for 5-HT2A compared with 5-HT1A. They display higher affinity for 5-HT2A receptors than their 2C counterparts and have markedly lower affinity, potency, and efficacy at the 5-HT2B receptor compared to 5-HT2A or 5-HT2C. The drugs are sold as blotter papers, or in powder, liquid, or tablet form, and they are administered sublingually/buccally, intravenously, via nasal insufflations, or by smoking. Since their introduction in the early 2010s, numerous reports have been published on clinical intoxications and fatalities resulting from the consumption of NBOMe compounds. Commonly observed adverse effects include visual and auditory hallucinations, confusion, anxiety, panic and fear, agitation, uncontrollable violent behavior, seizures, excited delirium, and sympathomimetic signs such mydriasis, tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia, and diaphoresis. Rhabdomyolysis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and multiorgan failure were also reported. This survey provides an updated overview of the pharmacological properties, pattern of use, metabolism, and desired effects associated with NBOMe use. Special emphasis is given to cases of non-fatal and lethal intoxication involving these compounds. As the analysis of NBOMes in biological materials can be challenging even for laboratories applying modern sensitive techniques, this paper also presents the analytical methods most commonly used for detection and identification of NBOMes and their metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta B Zawilska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Monika Kacela
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Piotr Adamowicz
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Research, Kraków, Poland
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15
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Armenta S, Gil C, Ventura M, Esteve-Turrillas FA. Unexpected identification and characterization of a cathinone precursor in the new psychoactive substance market: 3′,4′-methylenedioxy-2,2-dibromobutyrophenone. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 306:110043. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.110043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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16
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Miliano C, Marti M, Pintori N, Castelli MP, Tirri M, Arfè R, De Luca MA. Neurochemical and Behavioral Profiling in Male and Female Rats of the Psychedelic Agent 25I-NBOMe. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1406. [PMID: 31915427 PMCID: PMC6921684 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)phenethylamine (25I-NBOMe), commonly called “N-Bomb,” is a synthetic phenethylamine with psychedelic and entactogenic effects; it was available on the Internet both as a legal alternative to lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and as a surrogate of 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), but now it has been scheduled among controlled substances. 25I-NBOMe acts as full agonist on serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors. Users are often unaware of ingesting fake LSD, and several cases of intoxication and fatalities have been reported. In humans, overdoses of “N-Bomb” can cause tachycardia, hypertension, seizures, and agitation. Preclinical studies have not yet widely investigated the rewarding properties and behavioral effects of this compound in both sexes. Therefore, by in vivo microdialysis, we evaluated the effects of 25I-NBOMe on dopaminergic (DA) and serotonergic (5-HT) transmissions in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell and core, and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of male and female rats. Moreover, we investigated the effect of 25I-NBOMe on sensorimotor modifications as well as body temperature, nociception, and startle/prepulse inhibition (PPI). We showed that administration of 25I-NBOMe affects DA transmission in the NAc shell in both sexes, although showing different patterns; moreover, this compound causes impaired visual responses in both sexes, whereas core temperature is heavily affected in females, and the highest dose tested exerts an analgesic effect prominent in male rats. Indeed, this drug is able to impair the startle amplitude with the same extent in both sexes and inhibits the PPI in male and female rats. Our study fills the gap of knowledge on the behavioral effects of 25I-NBOMe and the risks associated with its ingestion; it focuses the attention on sex differences that might be useful to understand the trend of consumption as well as to recognize and treat intoxication and overdose symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Miliano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Universirty of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicholas Pintori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Universirty of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Universirty of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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17
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Lehmann S, Kieliba T, Thevis M, Rothschild MA, Mercer-Chalmers-Bender K. Fatalities associated with NPS stimulants in the Greater Cologne area. Int J Legal Med 2019; 134:229-241. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-019-02193-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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18
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Poulie CBM, Jensen AA, Halberstadt AL, Kristensen JL. DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: NBOMes. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 11:3860-3869. [PMID: 31657895 PMCID: PMC9191638 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
N-Benzylphenethylamines, commonly known as NBOMes, are synthetic psychedelic compounds derived from the phenethylamine class of psychedelics (2C-X compounds), which originally have been derived from the naturally occurring alkaloid mescaline. Analogously to their parent compounds and other classical psychedelics, such as psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), NBOMes are believed to exert their main pharmacological effects through activation of serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors. Since their introduction as New Psychoactive Substances (NPSs) in 2010, NBOMes have been widely used for recreational purposes; this has resulted in numerous cases of acute toxicity, sometimes with lethal outcomes, leading to the classification of several NBOMes as Schedule I substances in 2013. However, in addition to their recreational use, the NBOMe class has yielded several important biochemical tools, including [11C]Cimbi-36, which is now being used in positron emission tomography (PET) studies of the 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors in the mammalian brain, and 25CN-NBOH, one of the most selective 5-HT2A receptor agonists developed to date. In this Review, the history, chemistry, structure-activity relationships, ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) properties, and safety profiles of NBOMes will be outlined and discussed.
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19
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Darke S, Duflou J, Peacock A, Farrell M, Lappin J. Characteristics and circumstances of death related to new psychoactive stimulants and hallucinogens in Australia. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 204:107556. [PMID: 31546120 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New psychoactive stimulants and hallucinogens comprise a range of "designer drugs" that have risen to prominence in the 21st century. The study aimed to: 1. Determine the characteristics, and circumstances of death, of all recorded cases of new psychoactive stimulant and hallucinogen-related death in Australia; 2. Determine the toxicology of such deaths; and 3. Determine the major organ pathology of cases. METHODS All cases in which new psychoactive stimulants were a mechanism contributory to death were retrieved from the National Coronial Information System (2000-2017). Information was collected on cause of death, demographics, drug use history, circumstances of death, toxicology and major organ pathology. RESULTS 82 cases were identified. The mean age was 30.7yrs and 86.6% were male. Circumstances of death were: accidental drug toxicity (59.8%), traumatic accident (15.9%), suicide (12.2%) and natural disease (2.4%). The most common clinical presentation observed proximal to death was delirium (26.8%). Delirium was mostly frequently observed after phenethylamine consumption (72.2%). The most common cardiovascular diagnosis at autopsy was replacement fibrosis, indicative of previous ischemia (10.5%). New psychoactive stimulants and hallucinogens detected in toxicology were: cathinones (75.7%), phenethylamines (22.0%) and piperazines (6.1%). Other substances were present in 83.5% of cases, most commonly established controlled psychostimulants (58.2%). CONCLUSIONS Acute toxicity was the most common cause of death, but more than a third of deaths were due to trauma. Cathinones were the most commonly detected of the new psychoactive stimulants and hallucinogens. Delirium was the most frequently reported clinical sign proximal to death and was strongly associated with the phenethylamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane Darke
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, NSW, 2052, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
| | - Johan Duflou
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, NSW, 2052, Australia; Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Amy Peacock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, NSW, 2052, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Michael Farrell
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, NSW, 2052, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Julia Lappin
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, NSW, 2052, Australia; School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, NSW, 2052, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
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20
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Elbardisy H, Foster CW, Marron J, Mewis RE, Sutcliffe OB, Belal TS, Talaat W, Daabees HG, Banks CE. Quick Test for Determination of N-Bombs (Phenethylamine Derivatives, NBOMe) Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography: A Comparison between Photodiode Array and Amperometric Detection. ACS OMEGA 2019; 4:14439-14450. [PMID: 31528797 PMCID: PMC6740171 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b01366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of a new class of novel psychoactive substances, N-benzyl-substituted phenethylamine derivatives so-called "NBOMes" or "Smiles", in the recreational drug market has forced the development of new sensitive analytical methodologies for their detection and quantitation. NBOMes' hallucinogenic effects mimic those of the illegal psychedelic drug lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and are typically sold as LSD on blotter papers, resulting in a remarkable number of fatalities worldwide. In this article, four halide derivatives of NBOMe, namely, 2-(4-fluoro-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethan-1-amine, 2-(4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethan-1-amine, 2-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethan-1-amine, and 2-(4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethan-1-amine, were detected and quantified simultaneously using a high-performance liquid chromatographic method, and two detection systems were compared: photodiode array detection (detection system I) and amperometric detection via a commercially available impinging jet flow-cell system incorporating embedded graphite screen-printed macroelectrodes (detection system II). Under optimized experimental conditions, linear calibration plots were obtained in the concentration range of 10-300 and 20-300 μg mL-1, for detection systems I and II, respectively. Detection limit (limit of detection) values were between 4.6-6.7 and 9.7-18 μg mL-1, for detection systems I and II, respectively. Both detectors were employed for the analysis of the four NBOMe derivatives in the bulk form, in the presence of LSD and adulterants commonly found in street samples (e.g. paracetamol, caffeine, and benzocaine). Furthermore, the method was applied for the analysis of simulated blotter papers, and the obtained percentage recoveries were satisfactory, emphasizing its advantageous applicability for the routine analysis of NBOMes in forensic laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadil
M. Elbardisy
- Faculty
of Science and Engineering and MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge
Exchange (MANDRAKE), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K.
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Christopher W. Foster
- Faculty
of Science and Engineering and MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge
Exchange (MANDRAKE), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K.
| | - Jack Marron
- Faculty
of Science and Engineering and MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge
Exchange (MANDRAKE), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K.
| | - Ryan E. Mewis
- Faculty
of Science and Engineering and MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge
Exchange (MANDRAKE), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K.
| | - Oliver B. Sutcliffe
- Faculty
of Science and Engineering and MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge
Exchange (MANDRAKE), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K.
| | - Tarek S. Belal
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - Wael Talaat
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Hoda G. Daabees
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Craig E. Banks
- Faculty
of Science and Engineering and MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge
Exchange (MANDRAKE), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K.
- E-mail: . Tel: ++(0)1612471196. Website: www.craigbanksresearch.com
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21
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Chan S, Wu J, Lee B. Fatalities related to new psychoactive substances in Singapore-A case series. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 304:109892. [PMID: 31395407 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.109892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The use of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) has become a serious global issue with increasing number of reports of their toxicities and fatalities. Likewise, in Singapore, the number of exhibits containing NPS detected had increased 80% from 2011 to 2014. This is a case series of the first four autopsy cases of fatalities due to or related to the use of NPS in Singapore. In one case, we present the first reported case of death due directly to ADB-FUBINACA toxicity (post-mortem blood concentration of 56ng/ml). Another case was due to 25B-NBOMe toxicity (post-mortem blood concentration of 10ng/ml) while the last two cases were deaths related to 5-Fluoro ADB, where the metabolites of the drug were detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijia Chan
- Forensic Medicine Division, Health Sciences Authority, 11 Outram Rd, Singapore 169078, Singapore.
| | - Jiahao Wu
- Forensic Medicine Division, Health Sciences Authority, 11 Outram Rd, Singapore 169078, Singapore.
| | - Belinda Lee
- Forensic Medicine Division, Health Sciences Authority, 11 Outram Rd, Singapore 169078, Singapore.
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22
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Barsegyan SS, Kiryushin AN, Eroshchenko NN, Tuaeva NO, Nosyrev AE, Kirilyuk AA. [The detection of the 25B-NBOMe derivative of phenylethylamine in the biological material]. Sud Med Ekspert 2019; 62:34-39. [PMID: 31213590 DOI: 10.17116/sudmed20196202134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article is focused on the conditions for the detection and identification of 2-[4-bromo-2.5-dimethoxyl]-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl] ethamine (25B-NBOMe) and its major metabolites by the combination of the HPLC/MS/MS techniques. The high-resolution mass spectra obtained with the use of a linear ion trap are described. The results of the study give evidence of the possibility for the detection of the analytes within 24 hours after drug consumption and within 3 months after the storage of the biological material of interest in a refrigerator at a temperature of 3-5 °C. The data obtained confirmed high stability of 2-(4-bromo-2.5-dimethoxyl]-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl] ethamine and its metabolites in the biological tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- S S Barsegyan
- Bureau of Forensic Medical Expertise, Moscow Health Department, Moscow, Russia, 115516
| | - A N Kiryushin
- Central Chemical Toxicological Laboratory, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia, 119435; Analytical Toxicology V.P. Serbskiy Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia, 119002
| | - N N Eroshchenko
- Central Chemical Toxicological Laboratory, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia, 119435; Analytical Toxicology V.P. Serbskiy Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia, 119002
| | - N O Tuaeva
- Central Chemical Toxicological Laboratory, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia, 119435
| | - A E Nosyrev
- Central Chemical Toxicological Laboratory, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia, 119435; Analytical Toxicology V.P. Serbskiy Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia, 119002
| | - A A Kirilyuk
- Laboratory of Metrological Support of Biological and Information Technologies, All-Russian Research Institute of Metrological Services, Moscow, Russia, 119361
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23
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Herian M, Wojtas A, Kamińska K, Świt P, Wach A, Gołembiowska K. Hallucinogen-Like Action of the Novel Designer Drug 25I-NBOMe and Its Effect on Cortical Neurotransmitters in Rats. Neurotox Res 2019; 36:91-100. [PMID: 30989482 PMCID: PMC6570696 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-019-00033-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
NBOMes are N-benzylmethoxy derivatives of the 2C family hallucinogens. 4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)phenethylamine (25I-NBOMe) is one of the commonly used illicit drugs. It exhibits high binding affinity for 5-HT2A/C and 5-HT1A serotonin receptors. Activation of 5-HT2A receptor induces head-twitch response (HTR) in rodents, a behavioral marker of hallucinogen effect in humans. There is not much data on neurochemical properties of NBOMes. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of 25I-NBOMe on extracellular level of dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and glutamate (GLU) in the rat frontal cortex, tissue contents of monoamines, and hallucinogenic activity in rats. The extracellular levels of DA, 5-HT, and GLU were studied using microdialysis in freely moving animals. The tissue contents of DA, 5-HT and their metabolites 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were determined in the rat frontal cortex. We also tested a drug-elicited HTR. 25I-NBOMe at doses 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg (sc) increased extracellular DA, 5-HT, and GLU levels, enhanced tissue content of 5-HT and 5-HIAA, but did not affect tissue level of DA and its metabolites. The compound exhibited an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve with respect to the effect on extracellular DA and 5-HT levels, but a U-shaped dose-response curve was observed for its effect on GLU release and HTR. The data from our study suggest that hallucinogenic activity of 25I-NBOMe seems to be related with the increase in extracellular GLU level-mediated via cortical 5-HT2A receptors. The influence of 25I-NBOMe on 5-HT2C and 5-HT1A receptors may modulate its effect on neurotransmitters and HTR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Adam Wojtas
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kamińska
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Świt
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Wach
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Krystyna Gołembiowska
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
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24
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Kim JH, Kim S, Lee J, In S, Cho YY, Kang HC, Lee JY, Lee HS. In Vitro Metabolism of 25B-NBF, 2-(4-Bromo-2,5-Dimethoxyphenyl)- N-(2-Fluorobenzyl)ethanamine, in Human Hepatocytes Using Liquid Chromatography⁻Mass Spectrometry. Molecules 2019; 24:E818. [PMID: 30823561 PMCID: PMC6412758 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24040818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
25B-NBF, 2-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-fluorobenzyl)ethanamine, is a new psychoactive substance classified as a phenethylamine. It is a potent agonist of the 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor, but little is known about its metabolism and elimination properties since it was discovered. To aid 25B-NBF abuse screening, the metabolic characteristics of 25B-NBF were investigated in human hepatocytes and human cDNA-expressed cytochrome P450 (CYP) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes using liquid chromatography⁻high resolution mass spectrometry. At a hepatic extraction ratio of 0.80, 25B-NBF was extensively metabolized into 33 metabolites via hydroxylation, O-demethylation, bis-O-demethylation, N-debenzylation, glucuronidation, sulfation, and acetylation after incubation with pooled human hepatocytes. The metabolism of 25B-NBF was catalyzed by CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2J2, CYP3A4, and UGT2B7 enzymes. Based on these results, it is necessary to develop a bioanalytical method for the determination of not only 25B-NBF but also its metabolites in biological samples for the screening of 25B-NBF abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hyun Kim
- BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea.
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea.
| | - Sunjoo Kim
- BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea.
| | - Jaesin Lee
- National Forensic Service, Wonju 24460, Korea.
| | - Sangwhan In
- National Forensic Service, Wonju 24460, Korea.
| | - Yong-Yeon Cho
- BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea.
| | - Han Chang Kang
- BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea.
| | - Joo Young Lee
- BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea.
| | - Hye Suk Lee
- BK21 PLUS Team for Creative Leader Program for Pharmacomics-based Future Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea.
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25
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Abstract
Novel drugs of abuse are synthetic illicit drugs, or analogues of known illicit drugs, that can be more potent. Novel drugs of abuse are often labeled as designer drugs, research chemicals, legal highs, or psychoactive substances. They are often sold as designated legal or nondrug products, such as incense, plant food, or bath salts, with labeling such as "Not for Human Consumption" or "For Use in Research Only." The prevalence of use of novel drugs of abuse is difficult to determine because specific drugs, compounds, and availability of these drugs are constantly evolving. Changes in chemical structures lead to heterogeneity in physiologic response and clinical symptoms, even within the same category of drug. Pediatricians and emergency medicine physicians should be knowledgeable about novel drugs of abuse and their resulting symptoms for prevention and identification of their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Sam Wang
- Section of Emergency Medicine and Medical Toxicology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO.,Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver Health Hospital, Denver, CO
| | - Christopher Hoyte
- Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver Health Hospital, Denver, CO.,Department of Emergency Medicine and Medical Toxicology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, University Hospital, Aurora, CO
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26
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Grafinger KE, Stahl K, Wilke A, König S, Weinmann W. In vitro phase I metabolism of three phenethylamines 25D-NBOMe, 25E-NBOMe and 25N-NBOMe using microsomal and microbial models. Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:1607-1626. [PMID: 29971945 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Numerous 2,5-dimethoxy-N-benzylphenethylamines (NBOMe), carrying a variety of lipophilic substituents at the 4-position, are potent agonists at 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT2A ) receptors and show hallucinogenic effects. The present study investigated the metabolism of 25D-NBOMe, 25E-NBOMe, and 25N-NBOMe using the microsomal model of pooled human liver microsomes (pHLM) and the microbial model of the fungi Cunninghamella elegans (C. elegans). Identification of metabolites was performed using liquid chromatography-high resolution-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-HR-MS/MS) with a quadrupole time-of-flight (QqToF) instrument. In total, 36 25D-NBOMe phase I metabolites, 26 25E-NBOMe phase I metabolites and 24 25N-NBOMe phase I metabolites were detected and identified in pHLM. Furthermore, 14 metabolites of 25D-NBOMe, 11 25E-NBOMe metabolites, and nine 25N-NBOMe metabolites could be found in C. elegans. The main biotransformation steps observed were oxidative deamination, oxidative N-dealkylation also in combination with hydroxylation, oxidative O-demethylation possibly combined with hydroxylation, oxidation of secondary alcohols, mono- and dihydroxylation, oxidation of primary alcohols, and carboxylation of primary alcohols. Additionally, oxidative di-O-demethylation for 25E-NBOMe and reduction of the aromatic nitro group and N-acetylation of the primary aromatic amine for 25N-NBOMe took place. The resulting 25N-NBOMe metabolites were unique for NBOMe compounds. For all NBOMes investigated, the corresponding 2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-X) metabolite was detected. This study reports for the first time 25X-NBOMe N-oxide metabolites and hydroxylamine metabolites, which were identified for 25D-NBOMe and 25N-NBOMe and all three investigated NBOMes, respectively. C. elegans was capable of generating all main biotransformation steps observed in pHLM and might therefore be an interesting model for further studies of new psychoactive substances (NPS) metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Elisabeth Grafinger
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry, University of Bern, Switzerland.,Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Katja Stahl
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, University of Applied Sciences Offenburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Wilke
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, University of Applied Sciences Offenburg, Germany
| | - Stefan König
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Weinmann
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry, University of Bern, Switzerland
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27
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Hunter AH, Ayres T, Moreland N, Cox A. Phantom menace: novel psychoactive substances and the UK Armed Forces. J ROY ARMY MED CORPS 2018; 164:450-457. [DOI: 10.1136/jramc-2018-000927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) encompass a large group of synthesised compounds specifically designed to mimic traditional recreational drugs. Current UK Armed Forces compulsory drug testing does not screen for these substances, making them tempting to the small proportion of UK Armed Forces personnel who indulge in recreational drug use. The acute and chronic sequelae of NPS misuse are widely variable and associated with high morbidity. In this paper, we discuss NPS pharmacology and clinical presentation. We describe toxidromes and management of patients who have misused NPS.Finally, we reflect on the legal, ethical and military consequences of NPS misuse for both the service person misusing NPS and the Military Physician providing their care.
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28
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Abstract
Bioanalysis of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is very challenging due to the growing number of compounds with new chemical structures found on the drugs of abuse market. Screening, identification, and quantification in biosamples are needed in clinical and forensic toxicology settings, and these procedures are more challenging than the analysis of seized drug material because of extremely low concentrations encountered in biofluids but also due to diverse metabolic alterations of the parent compounds. This article focuses on bioanalytical single- and multi-analyte procedures applicable to a broad variety of NPS in various biomatrices, such as blood, urine, oral fluid, or hair. Sample preparation, instrumentation, detection modes, and data evaluation are discussed as well as corresponding pitfalls. PubMed-listed and English-written original research papers and review articles published online between 01 October 2012 and 30 September 2017 were considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Wagmann
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans H Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
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29
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Temporal KDH, Scott KS, Mohr ALA, Logan BK. Metabolic Profile Determination of NBOMe Compounds Using Human Liver Microsomes and Comparison with Findings in Authentic Human Blood and Urine. J Anal Toxicol 2017; 41:646-657. [PMID: 28472358 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkx029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) such as hallucinogenic NBOMes (N-methoxybenzyl derivatives of 2C phenethylamines) in the past few years into the recreational drug market has introduced various challenges in forensic analytical toxicology in regard to adequate and timely detection of these compounds. This is especially true in samples from individuals who have experienced severe and fatal intoxications. The aim of this research was to identify the major Phase I metabolites of selected NBOMe compounds to generate a predicted human metabolic pathway of these substances. An in vitro incubation method of pooled human liver microsomes (HLMs) with four (4) NBOMes was used to identify major metabolites. These metabolic products were identified and confirmed from accurate mass findings of samples analyzed by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography/Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry. The most common biotransformations observed among this group of NBOMes include O-demethylations at the three methoxy groups, hydroxylations and reduction at the amine group. Other metabolic products observed include positional isomers from various hydroxylation possibilities on the benzene ring and alkyl chains, and secondary metabolism resulting in multiple combinations of the reactions. Many of the major metabolites were subsequently identified in authentic human samples of blood and urine from drug users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen S Scott
- Arcadia University, 450 S. Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038, USA
| | - Amanda L A Mohr
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, 2300 Stratford Avenue, Willow Grove, PA 19090, USA
| | - Barry K Logan
- Arcadia University, 450 S. Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038, USA.,The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, 2300 Stratford Avenue, Willow Grove, PA 19090, USA.,NMS Labs, 3701 Welsh Road, Willow Grove, PA 19090, USA
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30
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Hondebrink L, Zwartsen A, Westerink RHS. Effect fingerprinting of new psychoactive substances (NPS): What can we learn from in vitro data? Pharmacol Ther 2017; 182:193-224. [PMID: 29097307 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is increasing and currently >600 NPS have been reported. However, limited information on neuropharmacological and toxicological effects of NPS is available, hampering risk characterization. We reviewed the literature on the in vitro neuronal modes of action to obtain effect fingerprints of different classes of illicit drugs and NPS. The most frequently reported NPS were selected for review: cathinones (MDPV, α-PVP, mephedrone, 4-MEC, pentedrone, methylone), cannabinoids (JWH-018), (hallucinogenic) phenethylamines (4-fluoroamphetamine, benzofurans (5-APB, 6-APB), 2C-B, NBOMes (25B-NBOMe, 25C-NBOMe, 25I-NBOMe)), arylcyclohexylamines (methoxetamine) and piperazine derivatives (mCPP, TFMPP, BZP). Our effect fingerprints highlight the main modes of action for the different NPS studied, including inhibition and/or reversal of monoamine reuptake transporters (cathinones and non-hallucinogenic phenethylamines), activation of 5-HT2receptors (hallucinogenic phenethylamines and piperazines), activation of cannabinoid receptors (cannabinoids) and inhibition of NDMA receptors (arylcyclohexylamines). Importantly, we identified additional targets by relating reported effect concentrations to the estimated human brain concentrations during recreational use. These additional targets include dopamine receptors, α- and β-adrenergic receptors, GABAAreceptors and acetylcholine receptors, which may all contribute to the observed clinical symptoms following exposure. Additional data is needed as the number of NPS continues to increase. Also, the effect fingerprints we have obtained are still incomplete and suffer from a large variation in the reported effects and effect sizes. Dedicated in vitro screening batteries will aid in complementing specific effect fingerprints of NPS. These fingerprints can be implemented in the risk assessments of NPS that are necessary for eventual control measures to reduce Public Health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hondebrink
- Dutch Poisons Information Center (DPIC), University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Zwartsen
- Dutch Poisons Information Center (DPIC), University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands; Neurotoxicology Research Group, Division Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80.177, NL-3508 TD, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Remco H S Westerink
- Neurotoxicology Research Group, Division Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80.177, NL-3508 TD, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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31
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Development and validation of a sensitive LC–MS/MS method to analyze NBOMes in dried blood spots: evaluation of long-term stability. Forensic Toxicol 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-017-0391-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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32
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Valento M, Lebin J. Emerging Drugs of Abuse: Synthetic Cannabinoids, Phenylethylamines (2C Drugs), and Synthetic Cathinones. CLINICAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpem.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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33
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Abstract
Previous attempts to identify a unified theory of brain serotonin function have largely failed to achieve consensus. In this present synthesis, we integrate previous perspectives with new and older data to create a novel bipartite model centred on the view that serotonin neurotransmission enhances two distinct adaptive responses to adversity, mediated in large part by its two most prevalent and researched brain receptors: the 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors. We propose that passive coping (i.e. tolerating a source of stress) is mediated by postsynaptic 5-HT1AR signalling and characterised by stress moderation. Conversely, we argue that active coping (i.e. actively addressing a source of stress) is mediated by 5-HT2AR signalling and characterised by enhanced plasticity (defined as capacity for change). We propose that 5-HT1AR-mediated stress moderation may be the brain's default response to adversity but that an improved ability to change one's situation and/or relationship to it via 5-HT2AR-mediated plasticity may also be important - and increasingly so as the level of adversity reaches a critical point. We propose that the 5-HT1AR pathway is enhanced by conventional 5-HT reuptake blocking antidepressants such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), whereas the 5-HT2AR pathway is enhanced by 5-HT2AR-agonist psychedelics. This bipartite model purports to explain how different drugs (SSRIs and psychedelics) that modulate the serotonergic system in different ways, can achieve complementary adaptive and potentially therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- RL Carhart-Harris
- Psychedelic Research Group, Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Centre for Psychiatry, Division of Brain Sciences, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - DJ Nutt
- Psychedelic Research Group, Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Centre for Psychiatry, Division of Brain Sciences, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Gatch MB, Dolan SB, Forster MJ. Locomotor and discriminative stimulus effects of four novel hallucinogens in rodents. Behav Pharmacol 2017; 28:375-385. [PMID: 28537942 PMCID: PMC5498282 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There has been increasing use of novel synthetic hallucinogenic compounds, 2-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine hydrochloride (25B-NBOMe), 2-(4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine hydrochloride (25C-NBOMe), 2-(4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine hydrochloride (25I-NBOMe), and N,N-diallyl-5-methoxy tryptamine (5-MeO-DALT), which have been associated with severe toxicities. These four compounds were tested for discriminative stimulus effects similar to a prototypical hallucinogen (-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM) and the entactogen (±)-3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Locomotor activity in mice was tested to obtain dose range and time-course information. 25B-NBOMe, 25C-NBOMe, and 25I-NBOMe decreased locomotor activity. 5-MeO-DALT dose dependently increased locomotor activity, with a peak at 10 mg/kg. A higher dose (25 mg/kg) suppressed activity. 25B-NBOMe fully substituted (≥80%) in both DOM-trained and MDMA-trained rats at 0.5 mg/kg. However, higher doses produced much lower levels of drug-appropriate responding in both DOM-trained and MDMA-trained rats. 25C-NBOMe fully substituted in DOM-trained rats, but produced only 67% drug-appropriate responding in MDMA-trained rats at doses that suppressed responding. 25I-NBOMe produced 74-78% drug-appropriate responding in DOM-trained and MDMA-trained rats at doses that suppressed responding. 5-MeO-DALT fully substituted for DOM, but produced few or no MDMA-like effects. All of the compounds, except 25I-NBOMe, fully substituted for DOM, whereas only 25B-NBOMe fully substituted for MDMA. However, the failure of 25I-NBOMe to fully substitute for either MDMA or DOM was more likely because of its substantial rate-depressant effects than weak discriminative stimulus effects. All of the compounds are likely to attract recreational users for their hallucinogenic properties, but probably of much less interest as substitutes for MDMA. Although no acute adverse effects were observed at the doses tested, the substantial toxicities reported in humans, coupled with the high likelihood for illicit use, suggests that these compounds have the same potential for abuse as other, currently scheduled compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Gatch
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
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Brunt TM, Atkinson AM, Nefau T, Martinez M, Lahaie E, Malzcewski A, Pazitny M, Belackova V, Brandt SD. Online test purchased new psychoactive substances in 5 different European countries: A snapshot study of chemical composition and price. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 44:105-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Logan BK, Mohr AL, Friscia M, Krotulski AJ, Papsun DM, Kacinko SL, Ropero-Miller JD, Huestis MA. Reports of Adverse Events Associated with Use of Novel Psychoactive Substances, 2013–2016: A Review. J Anal Toxicol 2017; 41:573-610. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkx031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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Halberstadt AL. Pharmacology and Toxicology of N-Benzylphenethylamine ("NBOMe") Hallucinogens. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 32:283-311. [PMID: 28097528 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Serotonergic hallucinogens induce profound changes in perception and cognition. The characteristic effects of hallucinogens are mediated by 5-HT2A receptor activation. One class of hallucinogens are 2,5-dimethoxy-substituted phenethylamines, such as the so-called 2C-X compounds 2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (2C-I). Addition of an N-benzyl group to phenethylamine hallucinogens produces a marked increase in 5-HT2A-binding affinity and hallucinogenic potency. N-benzylphenethylamines ("NBOMes") such as N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (25I-NBOMe) show subnanomolar affinity for the 5-HT2A receptor and are reportedly highly potent in humans. Several NBOMEs have been available from online vendors since 2010, resulting in numerous cases of toxicity and multiple fatalities. This chapter reviews the structure-activity relationships, behavioral pharmacology, metabolism, and toxicity of members of the NBOMe hallucinogen class. Based on a review of 51 cases of NBOMe toxicity reported in the literature, it appears that rhabdomyolysis is a relatively common complication of severe NBOMe toxicity, an effect that may be linked to NBOMe-induced seizures, hyperthermia, and vasoconstriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam L Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA.
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Wiergowski M, Aszyk J, Kaliszan M, Wilczewska K, Anand JS, Kot-Wasik A, Jankowski Z. Identification of novel psychoactive substances 25B-NBOMe and 4-CMC in biological material using HPLC-Q-TOF-MS and their quantification in blood using UPLC-MS/MS in case of severe intoxications. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2016; 1041-1042:1-10. [PMID: 27992785 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2016.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Revised: 11/27/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This paper describes cases of poisoning caused by new psychoactive substances such as: 25B-NBOMe (2-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine) and 4-CMC (1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-(methylamino)-1-propanone). The analytical procedure includes rapid and selective method for the extraction and determination of 4-CMC and 25B-NBOMe in blood samples using UPLC-MS/MS technique. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report, that involves a fully validated method for quantification of new-designer drug - 4-CMC in postmortem blood samples. The biological material was also analyzed with the use of routine analytical methods: immunochemical techniques, gas chromatography with flame ionization detection and gas chromatography with electron impact mass spectrometry. The results of real samples analyses correspond to possible toxicological effects: death resulting from 25B-NBOMe - mediated hallucinations (661ng/mL of 25B-NBOMe and 0.887ng/mL of 4-CMC), fatal overdose of 25B-NBOMe and 4-CMC (66.5ng/mL of 25B-NBOMe and 2.14ng/mL of 4-CMC) and non-fatal intoxication of these drugs (38.4ng/mL of 25B NBOMe and 0.181ng/mL of 4-CMC). Additionally, O-demethylathed O, O-bis-demethylathed and glucuronidated metabolites of 25B-NBOMe in biological specimens were detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Wiergowski
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 23 Dębowa Street, 80-204, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Justyna Aszyk
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza Street, 80-233, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Michał Kaliszan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 23 Dębowa Street, 80-204, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Kamila Wilczewska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza Street, 80-233, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jacek Sein Anand
- Pomeranian Toxicology Center and Department of Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Health Sciences with Subfaculty of Nursing and Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Tuwima 15 Street, 80-210, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Agata Kot-Wasik
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza Street, 80-233, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Jankowski
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 23 Dębowa Street, 80-204, Gdańsk, Poland
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