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Published on: November 21, 2012
Acute Methiopropamine Intoxication After "Synthacaine" Consumption
A Daveluy1, N Castaing2, H Cherifi3
1Service de pharmacologie médicale, centre d'addictovigilance, CHU Bordeaux.
Abstract:
Use of methiopropamine (MPA), a synthetic metamfetamine analog, has been detected since 2011 in Europe, but there is limited information on its acute toxicity. A 30-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department in a confused state, with paranoid delusion, auditory and visual hallucinatory experiences, and incoherent speech following the use of "synthacaine" (a slang term derived from "synthetic" and "cocaine"). Toxicological screening for pharmaceuticals and drugs of abuse by liquid chromatography-diode-array detector, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) detected MPA, which was subsequently quantified by a specific LC-MS-MS method. Of note, 13 h after presentation to the emergency department, the plasma concentration of MPA was 14 ng/mL. This case report confirms the toxicity of MPA and the need for toxicological analysis to confirm the substance actually ingested by users of new psychoactive substances.
Insights
Methiopropamine (MPA), a synthetic stimulant, caused acute toxicity in a patient using "synthacaine." This case highlights the need for advanced toxicological analysis to identify new psychoactive substances.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Forensic Science
Background:
- Methiopropamine (MPA), a synthetic amphetamine analog, has been increasingly detected in Europe since 2011.
- Limited data exists regarding the acute toxicity profile of MPA.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old male presented with acute confusion, paranoia, and hallucinations after consuming "synthacaine."
- Clinical examination revealed altered mental status and incoherent speech.
Findings:
- Toxicological analysis using LC-MS-MS confirmed the presence of MPA in the patient's plasma.
- MPA concentration was measured at 14 ng/mL, 13 hours post-admission.
Implications:
- This case confirms the acute toxicity of methiopropamine.
- Highlights the critical role of sophisticated toxicological screening in identifying novel psychoactive substances.
- Underscores the potential dangers associated with designer drugs like synthacaine.
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