Pipradrol hydrochlorideProduct ingredient for Pipradrol

Pipradrol (Meratran) ¹¹ was initially developed in the 1950s as an antidepressant, however, the adverse effects associated with its use and its abuse potential led to its withdrawal and international regulation ¹². Pipradrol was made illegal in many countries in 1970s because of its potential for abuse. It is currently classified under the Misuse of Drugs Act as a Class C substance ¹⁰.

Experimentation with the drug and its derivatives for recreational purposes has led to many cases of acute toxicity and has been linked to three fatalities. The social and in particular acute clinical harms of pipradrol derivatives have led to their control under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 in the UK in 2012 ³.

Interestingly, this drug has been studied for bactericidal properties, however, is not currently, used for this purpose ². In addition to this, it has shown favorable effects in postpartum depressive symptoms ⁶.