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Cathinone

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Substance

Synthetic cathinones belong to the group of amphetamines, specifically to the cathinone derivatives. Cathinones are synthetic substances derived from natural cathinone, which occurs in the khat plant ( Catha edulis ). [1]

Synthetic cathinones comprise a wide variety of substances that differ in their chemical structure. Some of the best-known synthetic cathinones include [2] :

Mephedrone (4-MMC / 4 - Methylmethcathinone )
Metaphedrone (3-MMC / 3 - Methylmethcathinone )
Methylone (MDMC / 3,4 - Methylenedioxy - N - methylcathinone )α-PVP (α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone)
MDPV ( 3,4 - Methylenedioxypyrovalerone )​​​
Methcathinone (Ephedrone / 2-Methylamino-1-phenylpropanone)

group

Stimulants

Be careful when mixing substances!

According to current information, most mixtures pose unexpected and, in some cases, life-threatening risks. Therefore, it is best to avoid all mixtures.

Substance groups

Forms of appearance

Cathinones are snorted, injected, swallowed, or smoked.

Consumption patterns

Oral or nasal.

dosage

It depends on the type of cathinone, the method of consumption, and the purity of the substance. Several cathinones are active even in the milligram range. It is important to be well-informed and to use a milligram scale to avoid overdoses.

[1] https://www.euda.europa.eu/publications/drug-profiles/synthetic-cathinones_de
[2] https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phenylethylamine#Cathinone
[3]  https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67a09f4a1f9e7f7dcc7b3fa8/Synthetic_Cathinones_final_4_-_3_February.pdf

Effect

The effects of synthetic cathinones vary from substance to substance, but in general, their effects are similar to those of MDMA, amphetamine, or cocaine. Some cathinones have effects more like cocaine or amphetamine, while others have a stronger empathogenic and entactogenic component, thus resembling the effects of MDMA. The stronger the effect on dopamine receptors, the more likely the substances are to exhibit amphetamine-like effects (e.g., 3-MMC). If the substances have a stronger effect on serotonin receptors, the stronger the empathogenic, MDMA-like effect (e.g., 4-MMC, 4-CMC). [1] The effects that users expect from these substances include increased energy, alertness, mood, sociability, sensory experiences, empathy, self-confidence, and sexual arousal.  Furthermore, cathinones suppress hunger, thirst, and the need for sleep.

The effects and their duration vary depending on the substance and the method of consumption.

Long-term risks

Most synthetic cathinones (especially when nasally consumed) produce a strong craving for more, which increases the potential for addiction. Synthetic cathinones produce the least craving when taken orally. Furthermore, chlorine-substituted methcathinones (x-CMC) are suspected of being highly neurotoxic (risk of brain damage).

Other possible consequences include strokes, heart attacks, and liver and/or kidney failure. Muscle fiber breakdown is also mentioned as a possible complication.

Safer Use

  • Drug checking services detect a large number of mislabeled cathinones. Therefore, whenever possible, use a drug checking service or test a small amount first.

  • There is very little information available about new psychoactive substances. Therefore, using them involves taking on unknown risks.

  • Before consuming cathinones, you should always inform yourself as thoroughly as possible about the specific substance and the appropriate dosage. If possible, gather testimonials or recommendations from other users.

  • Pay attention to the general mood and the environment (set and setting).

  • Drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages and take breaks in the fresh air.

  • Friends should be informed about what and how much is being consumed.

  • Longer breaks from consumption can counteract the habituation effect and the development of addiction.

  • Accept when the effect wears off and don't immediately take more.

  • Avoid mixing substances, as unexpected and dangerous interactions can occur.

  • Avoid consuming other serotonin-releasing substances such as MDMA, 4-FA, methamphetamine, etc. It can lead to life-threatening serotonin syndrome!

  • People with high blood pressure, heart problems, overactive thyroid, liver and kidney diseases or circulatory problems should not take new psychoactive substances.

  • When cathinones are used in a sexual context (chemsex), it is important to always obtain active consent and follow safer sex rules.

  • Always use sterile syringes for intravenous consumption to avoid the transmission of infectious diseases (HIV, Hepatitis C).

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