(2-Aminopropyl)benzo[β]thiophenes (APBTs) are novel monoamine transporter ligands that lack stimulant effects but display psychedelic-like activity in mice.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology March 1, 2022 Deborah Rudin, John D McCorvy, Grant C Glatfelter et al. 18 citations
Derivatives of (2-aminopropyl)indole and (2-aminopropyl)benzofuran are new psychoactive substances with stimulant effects. This study characterized six isomers of the sulfur-based analog (2-aminopropyl)benzo[β]thiophene (APBT) in vitro and three isomers in vivo. APBTs inhibited monoamine reuptake and induced transporter-mediated substrate release, similar to MDMA, but did not stimulate locomotion in mice. Instead, they acted as full agonists at 5-HT2 receptor subtypes and induced head-twitch responses, indicating psychedelic-like activity. Replacing oxygen with sulfur enhanced serotonin transporter release potency and 5-HT2 receptor activity, shifting the profile toward psychedelic and entactogenic effects with minimal psychomotor stimulation, suggesting potential for drug-assisted psychotherapy.