Citation

Zawilska JB, Słomiak K, Wasiak M, Woźniak P, Massalski M, Krupa E, Wojcieszak JŁ. Przegl. Lek. 2013; 70(6): 386-391.

Vernacular Title

Pochodne beta-katynonu--nowa generacja niebezpiecznych zwiazków psychostymulujacych z grupy "dopalaczy".

Affiliation

Zakład Farmakodynamiki, Uniwersytet Medyczny w Łodzi. jolanta.zawilska@umed.lodz.pl

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Przeglad Lekarski)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

24052975

Abstract

Synthetic beta-cathinone derivatives belong to the novel group of psychostimulant "designer drugs". They show significant structural similarity to catecholamines and exogenous central nervous system (CNS) stimulating agents such as amphetamine, methamphetamine, ephedrine, 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy), and act as dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Popular synthetic beta-cathinones include e.g. mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone, 4-MMC), naphyrone (naphthylpyrovalerone) and MDPV (3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone). Ingestion of synthetic cathinones produces effects of CNS stimulation, often comparable to those evoked by cocaine, amphetamine and MDMA. Chronic abuse of beta-cathinone derivatives leads to the development of tolerance, psychic and physical dependence. This paper discusses pharmacological properties of the most commonly used beta-cathinone derivatives as well as risks associated with their abuse. Special emphasis is given to neurological, psychiatric, cardiovascular and hematologic disturbances. Authors also present cases of fatalities caused by acute beta-cathinone intoxication or resulting from the drug-related accidents and crimes.

Language: pl