Triggers of highly lethal seizures induced by novel stimulants: A systematic review focused on synthetic cathinones and phenethylamines.
Neurotoxicology January 14, 2026 Martin Macháček, Markéta Bébarová 1 citation
Seizures caused by synthetic cathinones and phenethylamines often involve more than just serotonin and sympathomimetic toxicity. A systematic review of 42 intoxication cases found that nearly half of the patients died, with higher fatality among cathinone users. While monoaminergic toxidromes were common, intracranial hemorrhage, cerebral edema, hypoglycemia, and hyponatremia also contributed to seizures in several cases. These additional, potentially treatable causes suggest that prompt assessment for brain injury and metabolic disturbances could improve outcomes.