The ugly side of amphetamines: short- and long-term toxicity of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ‘Ecstasy’), methamphetamine and d-amphetamine
Biological Chemistry – January 02, 2011
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Chronic use of MDMA (Ecstasy) may lead to significant neurotoxicity, with animal studies suggesting concerning effects that remain unclear in humans. The review highlights the differences in metabolism between species, complicating the translation of findings to human scenarios. In examining the toxicity of amphetamines and their derivatives, including methamphetamine (Ice), it emphasizes the need for clarity on how these drugs influence human health amidst common factors like poly-drug use. Understanding this could reshape perspectives on stimulant safety and treatment approaches.
Abstract
Abstract Amphetamine (‘Speed’), methamphetamine (‘Ice’) and its congener 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ‘Ecstasy’) are illicit drugs abused worldwide for their euphoric and stimulant effects. Despite compelling evidence for chronic MDMA neurotoxicity in animal models, the physiological consequences of such toxicity in humans remain unclear. In addition, distinct differences in the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of MDMA between species and different strains of animals prevent the rationalisation of realistic human dose paradigms in animal studies. Here, we attempt to review amphetamine toxicity and in particular MDMA toxicity in the pathogenesis of exemplary human pathologies, independently of confounding environmental factors such as poly-drug use and drug purity.