Propylhexedrine hydrochloride was developed as a safer alternative to amphetamines in over-the-counter nasal decongestants. Unfortunately, it has some abuse potential. It is attractive since it can be obtained legally.
Brand name: Benzedrex
Mechanism of action: alpha-adrenergic sympathomimetic
The severity of adverse effects depends upon:
(1) dose
(2) route
(3) concomitant substance abuse
(4) chronic, frequent use
The drug may be abused by oral ingestion, by smoking or by intravenous injection (after extraction from the inhaler wick). Parenteral administration is associated with a wide range of adverse effects.
Toxic effects of propylhexedrine:
(1) cardiac dysfunction
(2) psychosis
(3) local vasoconstriction
(4) pulmonary hypertension
(5) cranial nerve palsies from brainstem dysfunction
(6) dependence
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