Fenethylline: Difference between revisions

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= Fenethylline =
{{Short description|A synthetic stimulant drug}}
{{Drugbox
| verifiedfields = changed
| verifiedrevid = 477002123
| IUPAC_name = 7-(2-aminoethyl)-theophylline
| image = Fenethylline.svg
| width = 200px
| image2 = Fenethylline ball-and-stick model.png
| width2 = 200px
| CAS_number = 3736-08-1
| ATC_prefix = none
| PubChem = 8288
| ChemSpiderID = 7987
| UNII = 0C7V1R5F14
| KEGG = D07966
| ChEMBL = 2104664
| C=18
| H=23
| N=5
| O=3
| molecular_weight = 341.41 g/mol
}}


'''Fenethylline''', commonly known by its brand name '''Captagon''', is a synthetic stimulant drug originally formulated in the 1960s. Intended for medical use to treat conditions such as [[hyperactivity]], [[narcolepsy]], and [[depression]], it later fell into disrepute due to its highly addictive properties. Consequently, by the 1980s, fenethylline was prohibited in numerous countries.
'''Fenethylline''', also known as '''fenetylline''' and by the brand name '''Captagon''', is a [[synthetic stimulant]] that was first synthesized in the 1960s. It is a combination of [[amphetamine]] and [[theophylline]], and it was originally used as a treatment for conditions such as [[attention deficit hyperactivity disorder]] (ADHD) and [[narcolepsy]].


== History ==
==Pharmacology==
Introduced in the 1960s, fenethylline was originally heralded as a wonder drug for ailments such as hyperactivity and depression. As its usage expanded, concerns about its addictive nature grew, leading to it being outlawed in several countries by the 1980s.
Fenethylline is metabolized by the body into its active components, [[amphetamine]] and [[theophylline]]. Amphetamine is a potent central nervous system stimulant that increases the release of [[neurotransmitters]] such as [[dopamine]] and [[norepinephrine]], leading to increased alertness, concentration, and energy. Theophylline is a [[methylxanthine]] drug that acts as a [[bronchodilator]] and has mild stimulant effects.


== Usage in the Middle East ==
==Medical Use==
Despite its ban, fenethylline has gained significant notoriety in the [[Middle East]], where it is illicitly produced and consumed. The drug's stimulating effects have been exploited by militants in the region, using it to endure prolonged periods of combat without fatigue.
Originally, fenethylline was prescribed for the treatment of [[ADHD]], [[narcolepsy]], and, in some cases, [[depression]]. It was favored for its perceived lower side effect profile compared to other stimulants. However, due to its potential for abuse and addiction, fenethylline was eventually banned in most countries.


== Production and Cost ==
==Abuse and Illicit Use==
One of the factors behind Captagon's widespread illegal manufacture and trade is its cost-effective production method. Using ingredients that are frequently legal and straightforward to procure, the drug can be produced inexpensively. However, on the black market, its tablets can fetch prices as high as $20 each, making it a lucrative venture for illicit producers.
Fenethylline has gained notoriety as a drug of abuse, particularly in the [[Middle East]]. It is often manufactured illegally and sold under the brand name Captagon. The drug is popular among certain groups due to its ability to enhance physical performance and reduce fatigue, making it a drug of choice in conflict zones.


== Effects ==
==Legal Status==
Describing the effects of Captagon, Lebanese psychiatrist Ramzi Haddad stated that it offers "the typical effects of a stimulant." Users experience sensations of euphoria, coupled with increased energy levels and alertness. This leads to heightened sociability (talkativeness), decreased appetite, and prolonged wakefulness.
Fenethylline is classified as a controlled substance in many countries. It is listed as a Schedule I drug under the [[United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances]], indicating that it is considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.


== Health Concerns ==
==Synthesis==
The use of fenethylline poses severe health risks due to its addictive nature. Chronic consumption can lead to physical dependency, and withdrawal can be a challenging and painful process. Moreover, prolonged use can have detrimental effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
The synthesis of fenethylline involves the chemical combination of [[amphetamine]] and [[theophylline]]. The process requires careful control of reaction conditions to ensure the correct formation of the compound. Due to its potential for abuse, the synthesis of fenethylline is heavily regulated.


== See Also ==
==Related pages==
* [[Amphetamine]]
* [[Theophylline]]
* [[Stimulant]]
* [[Stimulant]]
* [[Drug addiction]]
* [[Controlled substance]]
* [[Narcolepsy]]
 
* [[Middle East]]
[[Category:Drugs]]
{{stub}}
{{Stimulants}}
{{ADHD pharmacotherapies}}
{{Monoamine releasing agents}}
{{Purine receptor modulators}}
[[Category:Substituted amphetamines]]
[[Category:Xanthines]]
[[Category:Codrugs]]
[[Category:Adenosine receptor antagonists]]
[[Category:Norepinephrine-dopamine releasing agents]]
[[Category:Stimulants]]
[[Category:Stimulants]]
[[Category:1961 introductions]]
[[Category:Controlled substances]]
[[Category:Illegal drug trade]]
[[Category:Drugs with no legal status]]
<gallery>
File:Fenethylline.svg|Fenethylline
File:Captagon molecule spacefill.png|Fenethylline
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 01:06, 20 February 2025

A synthetic stimulant drug


Fenethylline
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number 3736-08-1
PubChem 8288
DrugBank
ChemSpider 7987
KEGG D07966


Fenethylline, also known as fenetylline and by the brand name Captagon, is a synthetic stimulant that was first synthesized in the 1960s. It is a combination of amphetamine and theophylline, and it was originally used as a treatment for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

Pharmacology[edit]

Fenethylline is metabolized by the body into its active components, amphetamine and theophylline. Amphetamine is a potent central nervous system stimulant that increases the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to increased alertness, concentration, and energy. Theophylline is a methylxanthine drug that acts as a bronchodilator and has mild stimulant effects.

Medical Use[edit]

Originally, fenethylline was prescribed for the treatment of ADHD, narcolepsy, and, in some cases, depression. It was favored for its perceived lower side effect profile compared to other stimulants. However, due to its potential for abuse and addiction, fenethylline was eventually banned in most countries.

Abuse and Illicit Use[edit]

Fenethylline has gained notoriety as a drug of abuse, particularly in the Middle East. It is often manufactured illegally and sold under the brand name Captagon. The drug is popular among certain groups due to its ability to enhance physical performance and reduce fatigue, making it a drug of choice in conflict zones.

Legal Status[edit]

Fenethylline is classified as a controlled substance in many countries. It is listed as a Schedule I drug under the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances, indicating that it is considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.

Synthesis[edit]

The synthesis of fenethylline involves the chemical combination of amphetamine and theophylline. The process requires careful control of reaction conditions to ensure the correct formation of the compound. Due to its potential for abuse, the synthesis of fenethylline is heavily regulated.

Related pages[edit]