Pyrovalerone (Centroton)
Pyrovalerone is the original pyrrolidinophenone stimulant, developed in the 1960s for fatigue and obesity before withdrawal due to abuse and dependence. It is the structural parent of alpha-PVP and related cathinones and acts as a potent norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor. Older clinical use gives it slightly more human data than its designer descendants.
01 Overview
Pyrovalerone (Centroton, Thymergix) was marketed mid-20th century as an anorectic and anti-fatigue agent. Its clinical use was abandoned after reports of abuse, dependence and withdrawal, and it is now internationally controlled. It remains the archetype of the pyrrolidinophenone cathinone family.
While some older clinical and pharmacological data exist, modern recreational use as a research chemical is characterised mainly by anecdote and forensic casework. It carries the strong abuse and cardiovascular risks typical of the class.
02 Mechanism
Potent norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor; the prototype pyrrolidinophenone from which alpha-PVP and analogues derive.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historical therapeutic | 20–40 mg | Oral | Former clinical anti-fatigue dosing; not a current recommendation. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stimulation and anti-fatigueHistorically used to reduce fatigue and appetite; energising and mood-lifting. | Moderate | Observational | |
| Appetite suppressionMarketed as an anorectic. | Moderate | Observational |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular stimulationTachycardia and hypertension as with other pyrrolidinophenones. | Moderate | Common | Observational | |
| Dependence and abuseDocumented abuse, tolerance and withdrawal led to its removal from clinical use. | Severe | Common (reason for withdrawal) | Observational |