Mephedrone and 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV): Synthetic Cathinones With Serious Health Implications

This article presents information on the predominant synthetic cathinones used in the Western world, mephedrone and methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV). Synthetic cathinones are commonly used drugs of abuse in the United States and Europe, with numerous cases of patient harm and death. Patients exhibit many neurological, cardiovascular, and muscular adverse events and frequently require therapy to control psychotic or agitated states and acute kidney injury resulting from myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. There are potential genetic polymorphisms and drug interactions that might accentuate risk, but there are no studies evaluating to what extent this occurs or if it is clinically relevant. Clinicians should be aware of the known pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and reports of effects to detect potential issues and treat patients presenting with these adverse effects.