Nephrotoxicity of recreational party drugs

Abstract

N-benzylpiperazine (BZP) is the active ingredient in recreational 'party' pills with a stimulant, euphoric mechanism of action akin to that of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy). Many people (ab)use BZP-based party pills usually without any significant toxic effects. However, nephrotoxicity secondary to hyperthermia and rhabdomyolysis has been reported. Another serious renal-related side-effect is hyponatraemia with acute cerebral oedema. There is also evidence that these agents may have a specific toxic effect producing acute kidney injury. Thus, acute kidney injury either direct or secondary to the effects of BZP or MDMA need to be considered when any individual presents with symptoms of a recreational party drug overdose. N-benzylpiperazine (BZP) is a popular recreational party drug. There is a potential for acute kidney injury, and this needs to be considered when any individual presents with symptoms of recreational drug overdose with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and/or BZP components. © 2011 Asian Pacific Society of Nephrology.