What is Cyclazodone? A Science-Based Guide (2025 Update)

The American Cyanamid Company originally developed cyclazodone in the 1960s, marking a most important milestone in stimulant medication’s history. This centrally acting dopaminergic stimulant emerged on the online research chemical market in 2017. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has not approved it yet.

The drug’s chemical structure resembles pemoline, which became a Schedule IV controlled substance because it could damage the liver. Medical reports have recently documented worrying effects. Patients using related compounds showed raised creatine kinase and alanine aminotransferase levels.

This piece gets into cyclazodone’s science, traces its development, and reveals what current research tells us about its effects. We aim to give you accurate, evidence-based information that helps you understand this controversial substance better.

What is Cyclazodone and How Does it Work?

Cyclazodone belongs to the 4-oxazolidinone class of compounds and features a unique N-cyclopropyl group that sets it apart from related substances. The compound’s distinctive properties come from its molecular formula C12H12N2O2.

Cyclazodone primarily works by interacting with the Trace Amine Associated Receptor 1 (TAAR1). This receptor plays a vital role in brain monoamine regulation. The compound also shows strong affinity for both the dopamine transporter (DAT) and norepinephrine transporter (NET).

The compound operates through three main pathways:

• Blocks dopamine reuptake, increasing its availability
• Inhibits norepinephrine reuptake, enhancing alertness
• Activates TAAR1, modulating multiple neurotransmitter systems

Laboratory studies reveal that cyclazodone is approximately 3-5 times more potent than pemoline. Maximum activity lasts 180 minutes, while total excitation continues beyond 6 hours. Animal models show central nervous system stimulant efficacy matching dextro-amphetamine.

Mouse studies demonstrate that the compound’s unique molecular structure leads to reduced cardiotoxic and hepatotoxic effects compared to D-amphetamine. Patents filed by inventors emphasize its superior central nervous system stimulating properties over many other N-lower-alkyl-substituted pemoline derivatives.

The History and Development Timeline

Scientists started their research experience with cyclazodone among other aminorex analogs at American Cyanamid Company. Research teams were learning about alternatives to amphetamines before its development. They wanted compounds that had fewer cardiovascular side effects.

Scientists created cyclazodone as a structural analog of thozalinone in 1963, during aminorex development. Lab studies produced encouraging results – cyclazodone showed 5 times greater potency than thozalinone. Tests on mice revealed these effects:

• Strong excitatory effects lasted beyond 6 hours
• Peak activity occurred between 120-180 minutes
• Minimal cardiovascular effects compared to amphetamines

Patents later emphasized cyclazodone’s ability to reduce fatigue and suppress appetite. The related compound aminorex faced major problems – markets withdrew it in 1968 after scientists linked it to pulmonary hypertension.

Cyclazodone stayed mostly unstudied until 2017, when it appeared on the online research chemical market. The compound currently exists in a legal gray area worldwide. Regulatory bodies like the FDA have neither explicitly scheduled nor approved it. All the same, it appears on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s prohibited list.

Social media platforms have seen increased discussions about cyclazodone since late 2021. Users often compare its effects to prescription stimulants, though they describe milder effects.

Understanding Cyclazodone Effects

Clinical observations show that cyclazodone creates various physical and cognitive effects. The compound produces moderate stimulation that falls between modafinil and methamphetamine in intensity. Users experience these notable changes:

• Better focus
• Improved stamina
• Higher blood pressure
• Mild euphoria
• Reduced appetite

The drug shows unique prosocial properties that go beyond typical stimulants. Its profile stands out with nowhere near the sympathomimetic activation of amphetamine.

Several side effects need attention. Users often report faster heart rates (110/min), higher blood pressure (150/90mmHg), and increased breathing rates (24/min). Long-term use can cause dry mouth, frequent urination, and muscle cramps.

Tolerance development needs careful thought. Users typically need 3-7 days for tolerance to drop by half, and baseline levels return after 1-2 weeks without use. The drug also shows cross-tolerance with other dopaminergic stimulants.

Long-term usage raises safety concerns. Cyclazodone showed fewer cardiotoxic and hepatotoxic effects than D-amphetamine in mouse studies. However, extended use combined with lack of sleep substantially increases psychosis risk. Doctors have reported cases where users experienced uncontrollable body movements and palpitations.

Conclusion

Studies show cyclazodone works as a potent stimulant, but its effects need to be thought over. Lab studies hint at lower heart and liver toxicity risks than common stimulants. The compound’s safety over time remains a mystery.

Medical data reveals how cyclazodone’s complex workings affect brain chemistry through multiple pathways. It especially impacts dopamine and norepinephrine systems. In spite of that, its documented side effects and tolerance buildup deserve careful attention before use.

The compound sits in a gray area without FDA approval, despite being around for decades. Some users report better focus and energy levels. The risks of high blood pressure, mental health issues, and possible liver strain can’t be ignored.

Scientists study compounds like cyclazodone to better grasp how they work and their safety. A cautious approach makes sense until detailed research emerges. This rings especially true given its unregulated status and limited clinical data.