Methaqualone

Products

Methaqualone was launched in the 1960s and is now off the market in many countries. Toquilone compositum (fixed combination with diphenhydramine) was withdrawn from the market in late 2005. Methaqualone is now one of the more tightly controlled narcotics (schedule a).

Structure and properties

Methaqualone (C16H14N2O, Mr = 250.3 g/mol) is a quinazoline derivative. It exists as a white crystalline powder that is very sparingly soluble in water. It is present in drugs in the form of the salt methaqualone hydrochloride.

Effects

Methaqualone (ATC N05CM01) has sedative and sleep-inducing properties. It has a rapid onset of action and a half-life between 6 to 8 hours.

Indications

For the treatment of sleep disorders.

Dosage

According to the professional information. Tablets are taken immediately before bedtime. Discontinuation should be gradual because withdrawal syndrome may occur.

Abuse

Methaqualone can be abused as an intoxicant because of its sedative and euphoric properties. It can lead to dependence and overdose.

Contraindications

Methaqualone is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, hepatic insufficiency, epilepsy, severe respiratory insufficiency, and myasthenia. For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Drug-drug interactions have been described with central depressant medications and alcohol.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include:

An overdose manifests as unconsciousness, hypermotor activity, convulsions, delirium, and cardiovascular disturbances and can be life-threatening.