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. 2008 Jul 21:8:4.
doi: 10.1186/1472-6904-8-4.

The clinical pharmacology of intranasal l-methamphetamine

John E Mendelson  1 , Dana McGlothlin, Debra S Harris, Elyse Foster, Tom Everhart, Peyton Jacob 3rd, Reese T Jones
Affiliations

The clinical pharmacology of intranasal l-methamphetamine

John E Mendelson et al. BMC Clin Pharmacol. .

Abstract

Background: We studied the pharmacology of l-methamphetamine, the less abused isomer, when used as a nasal decongestant.

Methods: 12 subjects self-administered l-methamphetamine from a nonprescription inhaler at the recommended dose (16 inhalations over 6 hours) then at 2 and 4 (32 and 64 inhalations) times this dose. In a separate session intravenous phenylephrine (200 microg) and l-methamphetamine (5 mg) were given to define alpha agonist pharmacology and bioavailability. Physiological, cardiovascular, pharmacokinetic, and subjective effects were measured.

Results: Plasma l-methamphetamine levels were often below the level of quantification so bioavailability was estimated by comparing urinary excretion of the intravenous and inhaled doses, yielding delivered dose estimates of 74.0 +/- 56.1, 124.7 +/- 106.6, and 268.1 +/- 220.5 microg for ascending exposures (mean 4.2 +/- 3.3 microg/inhalation). Physiological changes were minimal and not dose-dependent. Small decreases in stroke volume and cardiac output suggesting mild cardiodepression were seen.

Conclusion: Inhaled l-methamphetamine delivered from a non-prescription product produced minimal effects but may be a cardiodepressant.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Methamphetamine and amphetamine concentrations excreted in the urine from 0–12, 12–24, and 24–36 hours. Values are means (SE). N = 11.
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