In vivo and in vitro metabolism of 3,4-(methylenedioxy)methamphetamine in the rat: identification of metabolites using an ion trap detector
Chemical Research in Toxicology November 1, 1988 H. K. Lim, R. L. Foltz 117 citations
Four metabolic pathways of MDMA in rats have been identified: N-demethylation, O-dealkylation, deamination, and conjugation (O-methylation, O-glucuronidation, or O-sulfation). Specific metabolites include 3-hydroxy-4-methoxymethamphetamine, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymethamphetamine, 3,4-dihydroxymethamphetamine, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyamphetamine, MDA, and several phenylacetone derivatives. Most metabolites were excreted in urine as glucuronide or sulfate conjugates, with traces of free forms present. N-Demethyl and 3-O-methyl metabolites appeared in brain, liver, blood, and feces. Liver and brain supernatants metabolized MDMA to several of these compounds.