Synthetic psychotropic agents

In summary, these studies indicate that synthetic kavalactones and kava extract preparations alike are effective in managing anxiety disorders and anxiety symptomatology in a wide array of individuals. Kava was found to be as effective as the benzodiazepines but without their adverse effects. Further, the few adverse effects associated with kava were minor and transient in nature. However, the database on the clinical effects of kava by itself, and in comparison to and together with other psychotropic agents, is currently very small. This is an area ripe for further well-controlled, multi[Pg.149]

In the field of the hallucinogens, several structurally simple compounds have been developed which are potentially useful as adjuncts to psychotherapy. Synthetic work on the components of marihuana has furnished pure compounds for more detailed evaluation and molecular modification of the cannablnoids may lead to new types of psychotropic agents. The illicit use of hallucinogens with the attendant psychopathological consequences continues to be a pressing problem. 

Fowler CJ (2003) Plant-derived, synthetic and endogenous cannabinoids as neuroprotective agents non-psychoactive cannabinoids, entourage compounds and inhibitors of N-acyl ethanolamine breakdown as therapeutic strategies to avoid psychotropic effects. Brain Res Rev 41 26-43... 

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