MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine) Toxicity

The compound 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) has been identified in underground laboratory preparations of a potent analog of meperidine (Demerol). Sporadic outbreaks of MPTP-induced parkinsonism have occurred among street-drug abusers. Treatment includes cessation of exposure, as well as treatments similar to Parkinson's disease CDC - Street-Drug Contaminant causing Parkinsonism

Please see conventional, complementary, and alternative medical treatments for important background information regarding the different types of medical treatments discussed on this page. Naturopathic, Complementary, and Alternative treatments that may be considered include:

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  Parkinson's disease
• catatonic schizophrenia

MPTP is a potent inhibitor of complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and is associated with L-dopa-responsive parkinsonism.