Lephetamine abuse and dependence: clinical effects and withdrawal syndrome

Lephetamine (L-SPA) is a compound with central analgesic and anti-inflammatory action, recently reported to be abused in Italy. In this study, cases of L-SPA abuse were recorded. The survey included 15 patients who were assessed for effects caused by using L-SPA and induced by withdrawal. Moreover L-SPA was administered to 15 volunteers. L-SPA displayed effects partly similar to opiates and its withdrawal caused both subjective and objective symptoms. It is concluded that L-SPA exhibits abuse liability and dependence potential of a certain degree.