Mephedrone
Introduction
Mephedrone, also known as 4-methyl methcathinone (4-MMC) or 4-methyl ephedrone, is a synthetic stimulant drug of the amphetamine and cathinone classes. It is chemically similar to the cathinone compounds found in the khat plant of eastern Africa. Mephedrone comes in the form of tablets or a powder, which users can swallow, snort, inject, or use rectally.
History
Mephedrone was first synthesized in 1929, but did not become widely known until it was rediscovered in 2003. By 2007, mephedrone was reported to be available for sale on the internet, by 2008 law enforcement agencies had become aware of the compound, and by 2010, it had been reported in most of Europe, becoming particularly prevalent in the United Kingdom. Mephedrone was first made illegal in Israel in 2008, followed by Sweden later that year. In 2010, it was made illegal in many European countries and in December 2010, the EU ruled it illegal.
Chemistry
Mephedrone is a monoamine releasing agent. It is a chiral compound and both of its enantiomers display similar potency as substrates at dopamine transporters. R-Mephedrone is much less potent than S-mephedrone as a substrate at serotonin transporters.
The keto oxygen renders mephedrone more hydrophilic than the corresponding methylamphetamines, which may account for the higher doses required to achieve a similar effect, because mephedrone is less able to cross the blood–brain barrier.
Pharmacology
Mephedrone is a monoamine releasing agent. It is a chiral compound and both of its enantiomers display similar potency as substrates at dopamine transporters. R-Mephedrone is much less potent than S-mephedrone as a substrate at serotonin transporters.
Effects
The effects of mephedrone are similar to those of methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine. They include euphoria, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and an intense feeling of happiness. However, mephedrone also has negative effects, including teeth grinding, loss of appetite, hallucinations, and even psychosis in some cases.
Legal status
Mephedrone is a controlled substance in many countries including the United States, Australia, and much of Europe. In the United Kingdom, it is a Class B drug, with penalties for possession being up to five years in prison and for supply being up to 14 years in prison.