3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-ethylamphetamine

3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-ethylamphetamine (MDEA), also known as Eve, is a psychoactive drug and entactogen of the phenethylamine and amphetamine chemical classes. MDEA works primarily by increasing the activity of three neurotransmitters: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. It shares many of the psychoactive characteristics of other amphetamines and is closely related to MDMA (ecstasy), differing by the addition of an ethyl group to the amine.

Chemistry

MDEA is a member of the substituted methylenedioxyphenethylamine (MDxx) family, which includes compounds like MDMA and MDA (3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine). Its chemical formula is C₁₂H₁₇NO₂, indicating a methylenedioxy ring attached to a phenethylamine core with an additional ethyl group at the amine. This modification is thought to influence its pharmacological properties.

Pharmacology

The primary mode of action of MDEA is as a releasing agent and reuptake inhibitor of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This results in increased concentrations of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, leading to enhanced neurotransmission. The heightened serotonin activity is particularly notable for its role in the regulation of mood, empathy, and feelings of closeness with others, which are hallmark effects of entactogens like MDEA.

Effects

The effects of MDEA can vary widely among individuals, but common reported effects include feelings of euphoria, increased empathy and sociability, mild hallucinations, and enhanced sensory perception. The onset of effects typically occurs within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, with the duration of effects lasting approximately 3 to 6 hours.

Risks and Safety

As with other amphetamines, MDEA use comes with a range of potential adverse effects. These can include dehydration, hyperthermia, bruxism (teeth grinding), and in rare cases, severe health issues such as serotonin syndrome or cardiovascular problems. The risk of adverse effects is increased with higher doses, polydrug use, and pre-existing health conditions.

Legal Status

The legal status of MDEA varies by country, but it has been classified as a controlled substance in many parts of the world, including the United States, where it is listed as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification indicates that it is considered to have a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

Research

Research on MDEA has been limited due to its legal status, but it has been studied in the context of its psychoactive effects and potential therapeutic applications. Some researchers have explored its use in psychotherapy, similar to studies conducted with MDMA, though such research is in early stages and subject to regulatory restrictions.

See Also

• MDMA
• Amphetamine
• Psychoactive drug
• Entactogen