Mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone) (4-MMC) sometimes referred to as “White Lightning”, “Cloud 9”, “Ivory Wave”, “meow meow”, “M-CAT”, or “drone” is a synthetic stimulant that has gained significant attention over the past decade. It is part of the synthetic cathinone class which is structurally related to the natural cathinone found in the khat plant which is native to East Africa.
History of Mephedrone
Mephedrone was first synthesized in 1929 by a team of scientists at the German pharmaceutical company, Merck, as part of research into potential treatments for asthma. However, it wasn’t until the mid-2000s that mephedrone was discovered to have recreational stimulant effects. By 2007, it began to surface in the UK and European drug markets, often marketed as a “legal high” (UNODC, 2021).
The compound’s rise in popularity during the late 2000s and early 2010s coincided with the widespread availability of designer drugs, many of which mimicked the effects of illicit substances such as MDMA and cocaine. Mephedrone was initially sold as a research chemical or plant food, but its stimulant properties quickly became apparent, and it became a popular choice for recreational users.
Is Mephedrone Illegal?
United States: In the U.S., mephedrone is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Federal Controlled Substances Act, meaning it is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess. This classification was implemented in 2011, as part of a broader effort to regulate synthetic cathinones [NIDA], 2020). Despite this, the compound still appears in the black market, often disguised under misleading labels like “plant food” or “bath salts.”
United Kingdom: In the UK, mephedrone was banned in 2010 under the Misuse of Drugs Act. The decision came after widespread concerns over its association with health risks, particularly after reports of fatalities linked to its use. It is classified as a Class B drug, meaning its possession, production, or supply is illegal (UK Home Office, 2010).
Other Countries: Globally, mephedrone’s legal status varies. In Canada, it was added to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act in 2012. Many European countries have also moved to ban mephedrone, though it remains legal in some regions due to gaps in local drug laws. For instance, mephedrone remains a controlled substance in many European Union member states but can be legally sold in some non-EU countries, though international law is gradually tightening its grip on synthetic drugs like mephedrone.
Appearance and Odor
Mephedrone is typically found as a white, off-white, or slightly yellowish powder. The powder is often crystalline and can range in texture from fine to granular. It is generally odorless, though some users report a slight chemical or floral scent, especially when the drug is in its pure form. The color and texture may vary depending on the purity and the methods used for cutting or adulterating the product.
How Is Mephedrone Made?
Mephedrone is synthesized through a chemical process involving the reaction of 4-methylpropiophenone with an appropriate reducing agent. The synthesis pathway is relatively simple, involving several common reagents and equipment, which contributes to its availability on the black market. However, synthesizing mephedrone requires a solid understanding of organic chemistry, and illicit production is typically carried out in clandestine laboratories.
Pharmacokinetics
Pharmacokinetics refers to how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes a substance. After ingestion, mephedrone is absorbed into the bloodstream, where it can reach peak plasma concentrations within 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the method of administration. The half-life of mephedrone is estimated to be around 1-2 hours, and it is primarily metabolized in the liver through the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (NIDA, 2020).
Pharmacodynamics
Mephedrone acts on the central nervous system, primarily affecting the dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine systems. It functions as a releasing agent for these neurotransmitters, leading to increased levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. This results in enhanced feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and stimulation.
Like other stimulants, mephedrone can cause both psychological and physiological effects, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and heightened alertness. It shares similarities with other stimulant drugs, such as MDMA and cocaine, though its effects are generally considered less potent.
Routes of Administration
Mephedrone can be consumed in several ways:
1. Oral: Powder is dissolved in a liquid and swallowed. Sometimes, the powder will be wrapped in cigarette paper before swallowing, a process known as “bombing”.
2. Snorting: The powder is inhaled through the nose, leading to faster onset of effects.
3. Intravenous: Less common but has been reported in some users, leading to rapid onset of effects.
4. Rectal: Some users have reported the practice of “plugging”, “booty bumping” and “boofing”, which can lead to more intense and faster effects.
The route of administration significantly impacts the onset and intensity of the drug’s effects, with oral ingestion typically leading to a slower onset but longer duration of effects.
Effects of Mephedrone
The effects of mephedrone are stimulant in nature, and users often report a combination of physical and psychological experiences:
Short-Term Effects:
– Euphoria
– Increased energy and alertness
– Heightened sensory perception (similar to MDMA)
– Increased sociability and talkativeness
– Mild hallucinations or visual distortions (in some cases)
Negative Effects:
– Anxiety or panic attacks
– Insomnia
– Dehydration and hyperthermia
– Increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure
– Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
Long-Term Effects:
– Tolerance (requiring higher doses for the same effect)
– Potential for dependence or addiction
– Psychological issues, such as anxiety and paranoia
How Quick Is The Onset For Mephedrone?
The timeline of mephedrone’s effects depends on the method of administration:
– Oral: Effects typically begin within 30-60 minutes, peaking at around 90 minutes, and lasting up to 4-6 hours.
– Snorting: Onset is quicker, usually within 10-20 minutes, and effects peak within 30-60 minutes, lasting up to 2-3 hours.
– Intravenous: The fastest onset, with effects felt within seconds, peaking within minutes and lasting for a shorter period (usually under an hour).
Mephedrone Drug Testing Methods, Cutoff Levels & Windows of Detection
The primary metabolites of mephedrone, 4-methyl-norephedrine and 4-methylmethcathinone, can be detected during drug testing, though its presence may not always be flagged in routine screenings due to its chemical similarities to other stimulants. Special modifications may be required in order to accurately detect metabolites of this drug. The following are common testing methods:
– Urine Tests: Mephedrone can be detected in urine for up to 48 hours after use, though it may be detectable for longer in frequent users.
– Blood Tests: Mephedrone has a shorter detection window in blood (typically 24 hours).
– Hair Follicle Tests: Can detect mephedrone for up to 90 days, though this method is more expensive and less commonly used.
Cutoff levels for mephedrone detection vary depending on the testing method and the laboratory, but they typically range from 50 ng/mL to 500 ng/mL for urine tests. Testing can be performed on GC/MS and LS/MS platforms as well as point of care rapid kits.
Currently, DOT and most non-DOT jobs do not routinely test for mephedrone and other synthetic cathinones, although it is possible to add the drug to the testing panel if organization leadership requires it.
Supply Chain Sources & Locations
Mephedrone is typically manufactured in clandestine laboratories, often in regions with loose drug enforcement laws. Major production hubs for synthetic drugs like mephedrone include China and India, where precursor chemicals are often available, as well as certain Southeast Asian and Eastern European countries (UNODC, 2021).
Once produced, mephedrone is distributed through various illicit channels, with Europe, North America, and Australia being major markets. The internet also plays a significant role in the distribution of mephedrone, with online shops frequently offering it as a “legal high” or research chemical.
Street Prices for Mephedrone
The price of mephedrone varies depending on the location, purity, and supply-demand dynamics. On the black market, mephedrone typically costs between $20 and $50 per gram, though prices can fluctuate significantly based on local factors.
Mephedrone Dosing Size
The typical amount of mephedrone consumed in a day is about 0.5 to 1 gram, usually taken in doses every hour or two. However, tolerance builds quickly, causing some users to require 4-10 g per night for their fix. When injecting, people sometimes use 0.5g or more at a time and often inject more frequently than is typical with heroin – often in excess of 10 times daily (Drugwatch, 2013). Here are typical dosing sizes for each delivery method:
Oral: 50-100mg (light) to 150-300mg (heavy)
Snorting: 15-25mg (light) to 75-125mg (heavy)
Injection: Dose, 10-20mg (light) to 60-70mg (heavy)
User Demographics and Statistics
Mephedrone use is most common among younger adults, particularly those in the 18-35 age range. It is popular in party and rave scenes, as well as among individuals who are seeking stimulant effects similar to those of MDMA or cocaine. Surveys suggest that use is higher in the UK, Europe, and parts of North America (NIDA, 2020).
Feedback on Mephedrone User Satisfaction & Experiences
User experiences of mephedrone on Reddit often highlight a mix of intense euphoria, increased energy, and heightened sociability. Many users report feeling highly talkative and more connected to others, with a notable sense of pleasure equal to or greater than MDMA. Many use it as an aphrodisiac and report extremely satisfying effects during sex.
However, negative effects are commonly mentioned, including anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. Some also experience a “comedown” marked by feelings of depression, fatigue, or irritability. Users frequently caution about the potential for addiction and health risks, noting that the drug can be unpredictable in terms of potency.
Conclusion
Mephedrone is a potent stimulant that has been subject to increasing regulation due to its abuse potential and adverse effects. It represents a significant public health challenge requiring continued vigilance and coordinated response.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, professional help is available through:
– National Drug Helpline
– Local addiction treatment centers
– Emergency medical services
– Mental health crisis lines
References
1. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). (2021). “Global Synthetic Drugs Assessment.”
2. UK Home Office. (2010). “Explanatory Memorandum To The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (Amendment) Order 2010”. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/1207/pdfs/uksiem_20101207_en.pdf
3. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2020). “Cathinones and Their Effects.”
4. Baumeister, D., & Hurst, D. (2014). “Mephedrone: An Overview of Pharmacology and Toxicology.” _Journal of Clinical Toxicology.
5. 45 Factsheet DrugWatch: Mephedrone. (2013, Feb). Retrieved from Drugwise: https://www.drugwise.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Factsheet-Mephedrone.pdf
