α1-Adrenergic Receptors Contribute to the Acute Effects of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine in Humans
Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology July 13, 2013 Cédric M. Hysek, Anja E. Fink, Linda D. Simmler et al. 57 citations
Blocking α₁-noradrenergic receptors with the drug doxazosin reduces MDMA-induced increases in blood pressure and body temperature, and moderately lessens positive mood, but enhances rapid heart rate. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study with 16 healthy participants, doxazosin (8 mg daily for 3 days before MDMA 125 mg) altered several acute effects of MDMA. The findings suggest that α₁-adrenergic receptors play a role in the cardiovascular stimulant effects of MDMA and, to a minor extent, its thermogenic and euphoric effects in humans.