Studies on distribution of para-methoxymethamphetamine (PMMA) designer drug in rats using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

para-Methoxymethamphetamine (PMMA) is an abused psychedelic compound with reports of several intoxications and deaths after ingestion. However, its pharmacokinetics based on a controlled study is unknown and only partial information on its biotransformation is available. Our experimental study was designed for the time disposition profile of PMMA and its metabolites para-methoxyamphetamine (PMA), para-hydroxymethamphetamine (OH-MAM) and para-hydroxyamphetamine (OH-AM) in blood and biological tissues in rats after the bolus subcutaneous dose 40 mg/kg using a validated GC-MS method. The experimental results ascertained could be useful for subsequent evaluation of PMMA psychotropic or neurotoxic effects and the diagnostic concern of intoxication.