Soma (Carisoprodol) is a drug developed in the late 1950s that was initially suspected to be an antiseptic, but turned out to be a CNS depressant with minor muscle-relaxant properties. Although its mechanism of action isn’t fully elucidated, carisoprodol and its primary metabolite “meprobamate” are believed to indirectly modulate the neurotransmission of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric-acid) via …
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree in the coffee family (Rubiaceae) native to Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia. Due to the fact that its leaves contain an array of therapeutic alkaloids, kratom leaves are commonly ingested orally via chewing or in a tea-like preparation for medicinal purposes. Various alkaloids derived from …
Lortab is a brand name medication engineered to contain active ingredients hydrocodone bitartrate (a synthetic opioid) and acetaminophen (a non-opioid analgesic). The drug is typically prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe acute, chronic, or postoperative pain. The hydrocodone component of Lortab functions via binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, principally …
Spice and “K2” refer to various retail products containing herbs laced with synthetic cannabinoids. The synthetic cannabinoids within Spice and K2 are often considered functionally similar to THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannbinol) derived from cannabis in that they bind to cannabinoid receptors within the brain, and act as agonists. This cannabinoid receptor agonism facilitates intoxicating effects similar to …
Ketamine is a drug initially synthesized in the 1960s to be used as an anesthetic. It was approved by the FDA in 1970 and was utilized medically as anesthesia for soldiers during the Vietnam war. At the time, ketamine was considered a superior option to PCP (phencyclidine) due to its short duration of effect and …
Suboxone is a semisynthetic drug manufactured by Reckitt Benckiser pharmaceuticals for the treatment of opioid dependence. It was introduced to the market in October 2002 and gained popularity as a result of its efficacy and reduced potential for abuse compared to other opioid replacement agents such as methadone. The drug is comprised of the ingredients …
Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) is a psychostimulant medication manufactured by Shire Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). Many consider Vyvanse to be a “new and improved” successor of the drug Adderall. Vyvanse contains the ingredient Lisdexamfetamine which is pharmacologically inactive until metabolized; hence being classified as a “prodrug.” The fact that Vyvanse is a prodrug …