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MAM-2201 (analytically confirmed) intoxication after "Synthacaine" consumption
Davide Lonati1, Eleonora Buscaglia1, Pietro Papa2
1Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, IRCCS Maugeri Foundation, Pavia, Italy.
Synthacaine, a substance sold as legal cocaine, caused severe symptoms including tachycardia and dyspnea in a 20-year-old. It contained synthetic cannabinoid MAM-2201 and benzocaine, requiring medical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) pose public health risks due to their unpredictable psychoactive effects.
- Substances marketed as legal alternatives to illicit drugs often contain novel psychoactive substances (NPS).
Observation:
- A 20-year-old presented with excitatory behavior, xerostomia, chest pain, severe dyspnea, tachycardia, and hypertension six hours after nasal insufflation of Synthacaine.
- Synthacaine was marketed as a legal cocaine substitute.
Findings:
- Serum analysis detected MAM-2201 (11 ng/mL), a potent synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist, and benzocaine in the subject.
- MAM-2201 shares structural and pharmacologic similarities with other potent SCRAs like AM-2201 and JWH-122.
- Patient symptoms resolved following administration of diazepam and intravenous fluids.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential dangers of NPS like MAM-2201 found in products marketed as legal highs.
- Clinicians should consider NPS toxicity in patients presenting with severe, unexplained symptoms after using novel substances.
- The findings underscore the need for continued monitoring and regulation of synthetic cannabinoid products.
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