D-methamphetamine

Definition

D-methamphetamine, also known as dextroamphetamine, is the more potent and psychoactive enantiomer of the drug methamphetamine. It is a central nervous system stimulant that has been used for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, but its high potential for abuse and addiction has led to strict regulations on its medical use.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. D-methamphetamine is the more potent and psychoactive enantiomer of methamphetamine, while L-methamphetamine is the less potent and less stimulating enantiomer.
2. The presence of a chiral center at the α-carbon atom in methamphetamine is responsible for the existence of the two enantiomers, D-methamphetamine and L-methamphetamine.
3. The tetrahedral geometry of the α-carbon in methamphetamine allows for the two enantiomers to be non-superimposable mirror images of each other.
4. D-methamphetamine has a higher affinity for and greater stimulation of dopamine and norepinephrine receptors in the brain, leading to its more potent psychoactive effects compared to L-methamphetamine.
5. The illicit use of D-methamphetamine is associated with a high risk of addiction, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage, due to its potent stimulant effects on the central nervous system.

Review Questions

• Explain how the tetrahedral geometry of the α-carbon in methamphetamine allows for the existence of two enantiomers.
  • The tetrahedral geometry of the α-carbon in methamphetamine, with four different substituents attached, creates a chiral center. This chiral center gives rise to two non-superimposable mirror image forms of the molecule, known as enantiomers. The D-methamphetamine and L-methamphetamine enantiomers differ in their three-dimensional arrangement, but have the same chemical formula and connectivity. The tetrahedral shape of the α-carbon is crucial for the existence of these two distinct enantiomeric forms of methamphetamine.
• Describe the differences in the pharmacological and physiological effects between the D-methamphetamine and L-methamphetamine enantiomers.
  • The D-methamphetamine enantiomer is the more potent and psychoactive form, with a higher affinity for and greater stimulation of dopamine and norepinephrine receptors in the brain. This leads to more pronounced central nervous system stimulant effects, such as increased energy, euphoria, and focus. In contrast, the L-methamphetamine enantiomer is less potent and has a weaker effect on these neurotransmitter systems, resulting in less intense stimulant properties. The differences in the pharmacological profiles of the two enantiomers are directly related to their distinct three-dimensional structures and interactions with target receptors in the body.
• Evaluate the medical and societal implications of the illicit use of D-methamphetamine, considering its status as a controlled substance and the potential for addiction and adverse health effects.
  • D-methamphetamine, due to its potent stimulant effects on the central nervous system, has a high potential for abuse and addiction. The illicit use of this enantiomer is associated with a range of severe adverse health consequences, including cardiovascular problems, neurological damage, and psychological dependence. As a result, D-methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has accepted medical uses but a high risk of abuse. The strict regulation of D-methamphetamine is necessary to mitigate the significant public health and societal issues associated with its illicit production, distribution, and use, which can have far-reaching impacts on individuals, families, and communities.

Related terms

Enantiomers: Enantiomers are a pair of molecules that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other, having the same chemical formula and connectivity, but differing in their three-dimensional orientation.

Tetrahedral Carbon: A tetrahedral carbon is a carbon atom bonded to four other atoms in a three-dimensional arrangement, forming a tetrahedron shape. This geometry is crucial for the existence of enantiomers.

Chiral Center: A chiral center is a carbon atom with four different substituents attached, which gives rise to the possibility of enantiomers.