How is pseudoephedrine made?

Pseudoephedrine was first known as a natural substance that occurs in shrubs of the Ephedra genus, which grow worldwide. Almost all commercial pseudoephedrine, however, is produced by fermenting dextrose in the presence of benzaldehyde. The primary product, (R)-phenylacetylcarbinol, is aminated to make pseudoephedrine.

How is ephedrine made synthetically?

Natural ephedrine is prepared by extraction from Ephedra plants. This process is typically employed for ephedrine manufactured in China. Semi-synthetic ephedrine is prepared by fermentation of sugar followed by amination, a process known to be used in India. Fully chemically synthesized ephedrine is produced elsewhere.

What is the Nagai method?

The reduction of ephedrine or pseudoephedrine hydrochloride using hydriodic acid and red phosphorus, known as the Nagai route, is preferred in the Asian and South Asian region. The method is straightforward and can be used for large-scale production (Figure 1).

Does pseudoephedrine increase dopamine?

The suggested mechanism by which pseudoephedrine may improve performance is the reduction of an individuals perceived exertion, occuring in response to an increase in dopamine (Hodges et al. 2006).

What is the difference between ephedrine and epinephrine?

As a vasoconstrictor, epinephrine is 100 to 1,000 times more potent than ephedrine. 1 Mix-ups between these two drugs have resulted in serious patient harm. The Closed Claims Project of the American Society of Anesthesiologists found that errors involving epinephrine are particularly dangerous.

What is synthetic ephedrine?

Synthetic ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are found in over-the-counter decongestants and cold medicines and are used to treat asthma. Ephedrine is not approved in the United States as a drug for weight loss or to enhance athletic performance.

How do you make phenylacetone?

One method of creating phenylacetone is via: phenylacetic acid (C8H8O2) + acetic anhydride (C4H6O3) + pyridine catalyst → phenylacetone (C9H10O) + carbon dioxide (CO2) + water (H2O) Sodium acetate has been used instead of pyridine.

What is methylamine used for illegally?

In the United States, methylamine is controlled as a List 1 precursor chemical by the Drug Enforcement Administration due to its use in the illicit production of methamphetamine.

Does pseudoephedrine release serotonin?

[A10896] This agonism of adrenergic receptors produces vasoconstriction which is used as a decongestant 2,11,12,13,14,15,16,17 and as a treatment of priapism. Pseudoephedrine is also an inhibitor of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin transporters.