Synonyms
Amfetamine aspartate; (2S)-2-aminobutanedioic acid; bis(1-phenylpropan-2-amine)
Molecular Formula
C22H33N3O4
Smiles
CC(CC1=CC=CC=C1)N.CC(CC1=CC=CC=C1)N.C([C@@H](C(=O)O)N)C(=O)O
General Description
Amphetamine aspartate is the aspartate salt form of amphetamine, a synthetic sympathomimetic amine with potent central nervous system stimulating properties. As a Schedule II controlled substance, it appears as a crystalline powder and is formulated into immediate-release and extended-release oral dosage forms for the management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
Mechanism of Action
Amphetamine aspartate exerts its pharmacological effects by facilitating the release of catecholamines, particularly norepinephrine and dopamine, from presynaptic nerve terminals in the brain while simultaneously inhibiting their reuptake. This results in increased concentrations of these neurotransmitters within the synaptic cleft, leading to enhanced stimulation of postsynaptic receptors.
Application
Amphetamine aspartate is indicated as part of mixed amphetamine salt products for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in pediatric and adult populations, where it improves attention span and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is also approved for the management of narcolepsy to combat excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep attacks .
Li MH, et al. investigated the acute effects of amphetamine (AMPH) and methamphetamine (MA) on glutamatergic signaling in midbrain dopamine neurons, a key region for reward and addiction. Using electrophysiological recordings in animal models, the researchers found that both psychostimulants rapidly enhanced NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-mediated synaptic currents and reduced the AMPA/NMDA ratio. This potentiation was dependent on dopamine transporter-mediated intracellular entry of the drugs and was specifically mediated by GluN2B-containing NMDARs, as selective inhibitors blocked the effect. The underlying mechanism involved internalization of excitatory amino acid transporter 3 (EAAT3), resulting in elevated extracellular glutamate levels.
Fig. 1 Amphetamine (AMPH) increases NMDA receptor (NMDAR) excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopamine neurons. (Li MH, et al., 2017)
References
- Li MH, et al. Amphetamine and Methamphetamine Increase NMDAR-GluN2B Synaptic Currents in Midbrain Dopamine Neurons. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2017;42(7):1539-1547.
Does Amphetamine Aspartate require protection from light during long-term storage?
Yes, while stable under normal conditions, prolonged exposure to direct UV light can induce photolytic degradation. We recommend storage in light-resistant containers.
What is the recommended temperature range for shipping Amphetamine Aspartate?
Controlled room temperature (15-25°C) is ideal. We avoid extreme temperature fluctuations during shipping to prevent any risk of physical or chemical alteration.
Is Amphetamine Aspartate prone to racemization, and how is this controlled?
The aspartate salt form is carefully manufactured to maintain specific stereochemical purity. We use chiral chromatography to ensure the correct enantiomeric ratio is preserved.
How should expired Amphetamine Aspartate be handled for regulatory compliance?
As a controlled substance, expired material must be returned to us or destroyed via a DEA-authorized reverse distributor.