Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

A General Method for Evaluating Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Intravenous Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Published on: January 22, 2016
Hyperthermia associated with 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine ('Eve')
B Tehan1, R Hardern, A Bodenham
1Leeds General Infirmary.
Abstract:
A patient was admitted with hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, rhabdomyolysis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. He was initially thought to have taken 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, 'Ecstasy'), but subsequent toxicology revealed the presence of 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDEA, 'Eve'), its sister drug, in his blood. Subsequent in vitro testing for malignant hyperthermia proved to be negative.
Insights
A patient presented with severe symptoms including hyperthermia and muscle rigidity. Toxicology confirmed 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDEA, "Eve") exposure, not MDMA ("Ecstasy"), and malignant hyperthermia testing was negative.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- The patient exhibited symptoms consistent with a severe adverse drug reaction, including hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, rhabdomyolysis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation.
- Initial assessment suggested 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "Ecstasy") as the causative agent.
- Distinguishing between structurally similar substances is critical in clinical toxicology.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating sympathetic or...
Adrenergic Agonists: Mixed-Action Agents
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine lack a catecholamine group, making them less susceptible to degradation by metabolic enzymes. They have increased oral bioavailability and lipophilicity, resulting in a longer duration of action. Their response is reduced by...
Adrenergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses
Emergency and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) applications: Pressor agents increase blood pressure, heart rate, and contractility in shock and organ failure situations. Dopamine can induce vasodilation and stimulate adrenoceptors. Endogenous catecholamines are effective in treating cardiogenic shock. α2-agonists like clonidine can reverse anesthesia-induced hypertension.
Allergies and anaphylaxis:...
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Toxidromes: Clinical Features
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...

