Aim: To determine the interaction of over-the-counter (OTC) and illicit psychostimulants at the cytochrome P450 enzyme, CYP2D6. CYP2D6 is responsible for 20% of hepatic Phase I metabolism and is a site of drug-drug interactions, leading to increased drug toxicity. Materials and Methods: We examined the effects the OTC drugs; 1) the prototype H2-antagonist cimetidine (CMT) and 2) the opioid agon...

In this issue, Parrot and Young present the results of temperature measurements in young individuals "partying" with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or Ecstasy). This editorial commentary briefly summarizes the main findings of their study, provides background gained from previous animal experiments, and reviews the implications for the development of future pharmacotherapies and harm r...