International journal of molecular sciences
March 20, 2025
Sabrine Bilel, Cristina Miliano, Giorgia Corli et al.
3 citations
The synthetic psychedelic 25I-NBOMe, a selective 5HT2A receptor agonist abused as a counterfeit LSD, alters dopamine transmission, behavior, and synaptic plasticity in mice. At the highest dose tested (1 mg/kg), it increased dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens shell. It also increased reaction time within 30 minutes after administration and disrupted prepulse inhibition, indicating sensorimotor gating deficits. In brain slices, 25I-NBOMe prevented long-term potentiation in the medial prefrontal cortex, an effect not reversed by a selective 5HT2A antagonist. These findings highlight risks of 25I-NBOMe use, including altered neurotransmission and impaired cognitive processes.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology
May 1, 2024
Gessica Piras, Cristina Cadoni, Francesca Caria et al.
3 citations
The synthetic stimulant 2-Cl-4,5-MDMA, an NPS linked to severe intoxications, increased dopamine and serotonin levels in the nucleus accumbens shell and medial prefrontal cortex of rats in a dose-, brain area-, and age-dependent manner. In adult rats, dopamine rose more markedly in both brain areas, while adolescent rats showed a greater serotonin increase in the nucleus accumbens shell. The drug stimulated locomotion and stereotyped activity more in adolescents but did not trigger 50-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations, suggesting no positive affective properties. These findings indicate age-dependent neurochemical and behavioral effects, helping to assess health risks from human use.
Current neuropharmacology
January 9, 2026
Maria Antonietta De Luca, Cristina Miliano, Amanda Roxburgh et al.
1 citation
Tablets sold as MDMA frequently contain psychoactive adulterants that vary by region and year, potentially increasing central nervous system harm. A review of studies from 2020 to 2025 covering Continental Europe, the UK, the USA, and Australia found that co-administration of MDMA with common adulterants can exacerbate noxious neurological and psychiatric effects. The composition of tablets differs across these regions, and interactions between MDMA and adulterants may explain some adverse effects seen in users. Expanding drug checking and public health efforts is essential to inform users, first responders, and healthcare professionals about these risks.