Pharmacokinetic and Toxicological Aspects of 1,3-Dimethylamylamine with Clinical and Forensic Relevance

Abstract

1,3-dimethylamylamine (1,3-DMAA) is a simple straight-chain aliphatic sympathomimetic amine, which was used as a nasal decongestant between 1948 and 1983. It reappeared in both dietary supplements as a substitute for ephedrine, and in party pills as an alternative to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine and/or 1-benzylpiperazine, after these substances were banned. Following its introduction to the market, it became one of the most widely used stimulants, and several case reports started to raise concerns about the safety and adverse effects of 1,3-DMAA. As a result, many countries banned or restricted the sale of 1,3-DMAA. Nevertheless, despite the efforts of regulating agencies, it has been reported that 1,3-DMAA is still found in dietary supplements and has been identified in doping controls. Therefore, the objective of this work is to review both the clinical and forensic aspects of 1,3-DMAA.