MDPV

MDPV is a synthetic cathinone (β-keto amphetamine analogue) that emerged as a component of so-called bath salts products and has caused serious medical consequences including acute intoxications and fatalities. Preclinical studies demonstrate that MDPV functions as a powerful reinforcer in self-administration paradigms, with potency exceeding that of cocaine. MDPV displays rapid pharmacokinetics with peak plasma concentrations achieved within 10-20 minutes after injection and quick decline thereafter. Metabolism involves CYP2C19, CYP1A2, and CYP2D6 isoenzymes, producing metabolites such as 3,4-catechol-PV and 4-OH-3-MeO-PV, though motor activation correlates with parent drug concentrations rather than metabolites. Withdrawal from MDPV produces anxiety-like effects and dysregulation of cytokine and glutamate systems in mesocorticolimbic regions. Evidence is largely preclinical; human pharmacological data remain limited and derive primarily from case reports of intoxication and fatality.