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[Resurgence in paramethoxamphetamine use. Review of poisonings and two recent cases study]

Maria Kała1, Wojciech Lechowicz, Agnieszka Skulska

  • 1Instytut Ekspertyz Sadowych w Krakowie. mkala@ies.krakow.pl

Przeglad Lekarski
|October 21, 2011
PubMed

Insights

p-methoxyamphetamine (PAM) is a dangerous drug often mistaken for MDMA, leading to fatal overdoses. New LC-MS/MS methods improve detection of PAM and similar amphetamine derivatives in forensic toxicology.

Area of Science:

  • Forensic Toxicology
  • Pharmacology
  • Analytical Chemistry

Background:

  • p-methoxyamphetamine (PAM), a methoxylated phenethylamine derivative, has been associated with fatal intoxications globally.
  • Previous literature reviews identified three periods of increased lethal PMA causation between 1974 and 2011.

Observation:

  • Two recent fatalities involving PAM intake were documented and compared with historical cases.
  • Victims were often unaware they were consuming PAM, mistaking it for MDMA (Ecstasy).
  • Clinical signs of intoxication and PMA concentrations in biological samples were analyzed.

Findings:

  • Two novel analytical methods utilizing LC-MS/MS were developed for screening, identification, and quantification of amphetamine derivatives.
  • These methods are validated for biological samples, including blood and urine.

Implications:

  • The developed LC-MS/MS methods offer crucial tools for clinical and forensic toxicology.
  • Improved detection capabilities can aid in identifying drug-facilitated deaths and understanding PAM's role in fatalities.
  • Raising awareness about PAM as a potential adulterant in recreational drugs is vital for public health.

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