Products
α-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP) is trafficked as an illegal narcotic. It is also referred to as flakka.
Structure and properties
α-PVP (C15H21NO, Mr = 231.3 g/mol) is a synthetically prepared pyrrolidine derivative of cathinone that is related to MDPV. Cathinone is a natural alkaloid from the cathine shrub . α-PVP is closely related to pyrovalerone, an antidepressant and stimulant developed in the 1960s that is a reuptake inhibitor.
Effects
α-PVP has stimulant, hallucinogenic, and psychotropic properties. The effects are based on interaction with neurotransmitter systems. α-PVP inhibits the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine into the presynaptic neuron. It increases the concentration of dopamine in the synaptic cleft.
Abuse
α-PVP is abused as a narcotic. It is strongly discouraged because of the potential adverse effects. Side effects include tachycardia, hypertension, agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, hyperthermia, and delirium. Deaths have been reported.
