3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-propylamphetamine

3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-propylamphetamine (MDPA) is a psychoactive drug and member of the phenethylamine and amphetamine chemical classes. It is an analogue of MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), which is known commonly as ecstasy.

Chemistry

MDPA is a substituted amphetamine, meaning it contains a phenethylamine core featuring a phenyl ring bound to an amino (NH2) group through an ethyl chain with an additional methyl substitution at Rα. MDPA is substituted at R3 and R4 of the phenyl ring with methylenedioxy functional groups. It also contains a propyl chain bound to the terminal amine RN of its phenethylamine skeleton. This propyl chain makes MDPA a higher homologue of MDMA, and the two compounds differ only by the length of their carbon chains.

Pharmacology

The pharmacology of MDPA is not well-studied. However, it is known that the compound acts as a serotonin-norepinephrine-dopamine releasing agent (SNDRA) and reuptake inhibitor, similar to its lower homologue MDMA. This means it effectively increases the levels of the three major neurotransmitters in the brain, serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, by causing them to be released from their storage sites in neurons and by preventing their reuptake.

Effects

The effects of MDPA are thought to be similar to those of MDMA, though potentially less intense due to the additional carbon in the alkyl chain. Users may experience feelings of euphoria, increased sociability, and heightened sensory perception. However, these effects are often accompanied by negative side effects such as nausea, dehydration, and potential neurotoxicity.

Legality

MDPA is a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, meaning it is illegal to manufacture, buy, possess, or distribute without a license from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It is also controlled under similar laws in many other countries.

See also

• MDMA
• Amphetamine
• Psychoactive drug
• Phenethylamine