Skip to content

Nelson G. M. Gomes

Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário

2 papers in the library · 42 citations · publishing 2021-2025

Papers

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Salvinorin A and Salvia divinorum: Clinical and Forensic Aspects

Pharmaceuticals February 3, 2021 Andreia Machado Brito-Da-Costa, Áurea Madureira-Carvalho, Diana Dias Da Silva et al. 42 citations

Salvia divinorum, a mint from Mexico used for centuries by Mazatecans for divinatory and medicinal purposes, is increasingly used recreationally by adolescents and young adults. Its main psychoactive compound, salvinorin A, is a non-nitrogenous diterpenoid that acts selectively on the κ-opioid receptor. Absorption occurs through oral mucosa or respiratory tract; when swallowed, it is rapidly broken down in the gastrointestinal system to its inactive metabolite salvinorin B. The compound is quickly distributed, accumulates in the brain, and is rapidly eliminated, matching its short-lived effects. No reports of toxicity or serious adverse outcomes were found. Proposed therapeutic applications include treatment of chronic pain, gastrointestinal and mood disorders, neurological diseases, and drug dependence, but clinical acceptance is limited by psychotropic side effects and misuse.

DOI: 10.3390/ph14020116 Hallucinogen Pharmacology Traditional medicine Drug

Rare but relevant: MDMA and hyponatraemia

Addiction December 8, 2025 María Rita Concepción García, Nelson G. M. Gomes, Diana Dias Da Silva

MDMA (ecstasy), commonly used for its stimulant and empathogenic effects especially among young adults in recreational settings, can cause hyponatraemia—a low blood sodium concentration that alters mental state and is life-threatening if untreated. Although hyponatraemia is a common electrolyte disorder in clinical care, acute MDMA-induced hyponatraemia was first reported in 1993. Women face higher incidence rates and greater odds of severe effects. This review describes the clinical manifestations, prevalence, pathophysiological mechanisms, and therapeutic approaches for correcting this electrolyte imbalance.

DOI: 10.1111/add.70255 MDMA Ecstasy Hyponatremia Electrolyte disorder +11