PPAP
Deprenyl-derived catecholaminergic activity enhancer (CAE) with no MAO inhibition; preclinical data only.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS PPAP?
Detailed overview
PPAP (1-phenyl-2-propylaminopentane) is a structural analogue of deprenyl (selegiline), developed by József Knoll and colleagues at the Department of Pharmacology, Semmelweis University in Budapest in the late 1980s. It is the prototype of the so-called catecholaminergic activity enhancers (CAE): unlike amphetamine it does not force transmitter release, and unlike selegiline it does not inhibit MAO. Instead it strengthens the coupling between a neuron's action potential and its transmitter release, so dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurons discharge more catecholamine when stimulated. In contrast to selegiline it is not metabolized to amphetamine. More recent data indicate it is also a catecholamine reuptake inhibitor (DAT IC50 ~57.5 nM). It has never been tested in humans and exists only as an experimental research chemical.
Mechanism
Catecholaminergic activity enhancer (CAE), non-MAO-inhibiting
Evidence
Preclinical only (no human data)
Legal status
Unapproved; controlled in several countries
Receptor profile
- Catecholaminergic activity enhancement (CAE)Strong
- Catecholamine reuptake (DAT/NET)Moderate
- Neuronal survival signalingModerate
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 5
- No human safety data: the compound has never been tested in humans, all evidence comes from rodent studies
- Possible overstimulation: anxiety, restlessness, insomnia from the heightened catecholaminergic tone
- Increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, as expected from sympathomimetic/stimulant agents
- Theoretical addiction and abuse potential via dopaminergic reinforcement, though lower than amphetamine
- Unknown long-term safety and incomplete toxicity profile in humans
Contraindications · 5
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: safety not established, avoid
- Cardiovascular disease, arrhythmia, uncontrolled hypertension: the sympathomimetic effect may worsen them
- Anxiety disorders, panic disorder: the stimulant effect may aggravate symptoms
- Avoid combining with MAO inhibitors and other serotonergic/adrenergic agents due to catecholaminergic overload risk
- Not an approved medicine; experimental research chemical, not recommended without clinical supervision
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
The pharmacology of 1-phenyl-2-propylamino-pentane (PPAP), a deprenyl-derived new spectrum psychostimulant
Knoll J, Knoll B, Török Z, Timár J, Yasar S
(-)Deprenyl and (-)1-phenyl-2-propylaminopentane, [(-)PPAP], act primarily as potent stimulants of action potential-transmitter release coupling in the catecholaminergic neurons
Knoll J, Miklya I, Knoll B, Markó R, Kelemen K
High performing rats are more sensitive toward catecholaminergic activity enhancer (CAE) compounds than their low performing peers
Knoll J, Knoll B, Miklya I
FAQ
FAQ
Deprenyl-derived catecholaminergic activity enhancer (CAE) with no MAO inhibition; preclinical data only.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.