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A Review of the Receptor-Binding Properties of p -Synephrine as Related to Its Pharmacological Effects

2011; Hindawi Publishing Corporation; Volume: 2011; Linguagem: Inglês

10.1155/2011/482973

1942-0900

Sidney J. Stohs, Harry G. Preuss, Mohd Shara,

Analytical Methods in Pharmaceuticals

Bitter orange ( Citrus aurantium ) extract and its primary protoalkaloid p -synephrine are used widely in weight loss/weight management and sports performance products. Because of structural similarities, the pharmacological effects of p -synephrine are widely assumed to be similar to those of ephedrine, m -synephrine (phenylephrine), and endogenous amine neurotransmitters as norepinephrine and epinephrine. However, small structural changes result in the receptor binding characteristics of these amines that are markedly different, providing a plausible explanation for the paucity of adverse effects associated with the wide-spread consumption of p -synephrine in the form of dietary supplements as well as in various Citrus foods and juices. This paper summarizes the adrenoreceptor binding characteristics of p -synephrine relative to m -synephrine, norepinephrine, and other amines as related to the observed pharmacological effects.