Problems of Forensic Sciences 2002 Vol. 52 (LII) 64-86
HALLUCINOGENIC AMPHETAMINES
Katarzyna NASIADKA, Anita RUTKOWSKA, Jerzy BRANDYS
Faculty of Toxicology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Cracow
Streszczenie
MDMA, i.e. 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine ("ecstasy") and its derivatives are referred to as hallucinogenic amphetamines. Their action is the result of a combination of the stimulating effect of amphetamine and the hallucinogenic effect of mescaline. MDMA causes an increase in the release of 5-HT, which leads to a depletion of the supply of this neurotransmitter. The effect of the action of MDMA derivatives manifests itself as a sense of well-being, blissfulness, intimacy, closeness to other people, acceptance of one's self and the world, and a heightening of one's perception of the surroundings. The intensity of hallucination varies between compounds of this group. Derivatives of MDMA can be divided according to their effect into: entactogenic compounds, compounds with mainly hallucinogenic action, and mixed ones. These compounds, known as "designer drugs", are modified in illegal laboratories in order to increase their length of action and intensity. It is not uncommon for purely accidental products of unknown pharmacokinetics and toxicity to find their way onto the market.
Słowa kluczowe
Ecstasy; Designer drug; Entactogens; Hallucinogens; Neurotoxicity.