Paraxanthine

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

Paraxanthine_structure.svg

Paraxanthine (1,7-dimethylxanthine) is a xanthine derivative and a stimulant that belongs to the methylxanthine class of alkaloids. It is a major metabolite of caffeine in humans and other animals.

Metabolism

Paraxanthine is produced in the liver by the cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP1A2 through the demethylation of caffeine. Approximately 84% of caffeine is metabolized into paraxanthine. The other primary metabolites of caffeine are theobromine and theophylline.

Pharmacology

Paraxanthine acts as a central nervous system stimulant. It is known to increase the levels of dopamine and glutamate in the brain, which contributes to its stimulating effects. Paraxanthine also inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase, leading to an increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, which further enhances its stimulant properties.

Effects

The effects of paraxanthine are similar to those of caffeine, including increased alertness, reduced fatigue, and improved concentration. However, paraxanthine is considered to have a shorter half-life and may produce fewer side effects compared to caffeine.

Health Implications

The health implications of paraxanthine are not as well-studied as those of caffeine. However, it is believed to have similar effects on the cardiovascular system, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Long-term consumption of paraxanthine, through caffeine intake, has been associated with both positive and negative health outcomes.

See also

References



External links


Stub icon
   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!



Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD