Molecule

Drug Groups

illicit; withdrawn

Description

Methaqualone is a sedative-hypnotic drug that is similar in effect to barbiturates, a general central nervous system depressant. The sedative-hypnotic activity was first noted by Indian researchers in the 1950s and in 1962 methaqualone itself was patented in the US by Wallace and Tiernan. Its use peaked in the early 1970s as a hypnotic, for the treatment of insomnia, and as a sedative and muscle relaxant. It has also been used illegally as a recreational drug, commonly known as Quaaludes, Sopors, Ludes or Mandrax (particularly in the 1970s in North America) depending on the manufacturer. Since at least 2001, it has been widely used in South Africa, where it is commonly referred to as "smarties" or "geluk-tablette" (meaning happy tablets). Clandestinely produced methaqualone is still seized by government agencies and police forces around the world. [Wikipedia]

Indication

For the treatment of insomnia, and as a sedative and muscle relaxant.

Toxicity

Symptoms of overdose include delirium, convulsions, muscle spasms or seizure, cardiac arrest, shortness or loss of breath, vomiting or nausea, and coma or death. The LD50 for mice is 1250 mg/kg and for rats is 326 mg/kg (Strasenburg Labs).

Affected Organisms

References

External Links