GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric-acid) is a drug that was initially synthesized in 1874 by Alexander Zaytsev, but its effects weren’t researched in humans until the 1960s. Upon administration to humans, it was discovered that GHB functions as a short-acting CNS depressant. GHB alters neurotransmission via binding to multiple receptor sites within the brain including: GHB receptors and GABA(B) …
Codeine (3-methylmorphine) is an opioid medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of severe coughing (antitussive), mild to moderate pain (analgesic), and/or uncontrollable diarrhea (antidiarrheal). It is considered a natural form of methylated morphine and is the second-most significant alkaloid in opium, accounting for up to 3%. In the United States, codeine is typically manufactured in …
Hydrocodone is a popular pharmaceutical drug commonly prescribed for the treatment of severe pain, and in some cases as an antitussive agent to mitigate chronic coughing. It is a semi-synthetic drug in that it is synthesized from codeine (an opioid alkaloid derived from opium poppy). Upon ingestion of hydrocodone, it facilitates analgesic effects via binding …
Xanax (Alprazolam) is regarded as the single most popular benzodiazepine in the world. It is a highly effective drug when utilized for the medical treatment of acute anxiety, panic attacks, and social phobia. This is due to the fact that Xanax modulates the neurotransmission of GABA (gamma-amino-butyric acid), specifically at the GABA-A receptor sites. To …
PCP (Phencyclidine), commonly referred to as “Angel Dust,” was first synthesized in the 1950s and initially approved by the FDA as an anesthetic under the brand Sernyl. As a result of its extended half-life (approximately 3 days) and adverse psychotomimetic effects (e.g. hallucinations), it was taken off the market in 1965. Despite its removal from …
LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide) is a psychedelic drug initially synthesized in 1938 by Albert Hofmann from ergotamine, a chemical derivative of ergot (a grain fungus). In the United States, the drug is considered a Schedule I controlled-substance, meaning it has no accepted medical use and there is a lack of safety associated with its administration. …
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) is a synthetic psychoactive substance known for its combination of euphoric and empathogenic effects. In the United States, it is commonly referred to as ecstasy and/or “Molly.” MDMA is considered a Schedule I controlled-substance, meaning it has no accepted medical use, a high potential for abuse, and is considered unsafe when utilized outside …