4'-Methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone

4'-Methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone (also known as MPHP) is a stimulant compound which has been reported as a novel designer drug. It is closely related to pyrovalerone, being simply its chain-lengthened homologue. In the pyrrolidinophenone series, stimulant activity is maintained so long as the positions of the aryl, ketone and pyrrolidinyl groups are held constant, while the alkyl backbone can be varied anywhere between three and seven carbons, with highest potency usually seen with the pentyl or hexyl backbone.

Chemistry

4'-Methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone is a substituted cathinone. Substituted cathinones are modified based on the structure of cathinone, an alkaloid found in the Khat plant. Cathinone occurs naturally in the plant Catha edulis, which is native to East Africa and southern Arabia. Substituted cathinones, like 4'-Methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone, feature a phenethylamine core with an alkyl group attached to the alpha carbon, and a ketone group attached to the beta carbon.

Pharmacology

The pharmacology of 4'-Methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone is not well-studied. However, it is known that it acts as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). This means it effectively boosts the levels of the norepinephrine and dopamine neurotransmitters in the brain by binding to, and partially blocking the transporter proteins that normally remove those monoamines from the synaptic cleft.

Legality

The legality of 4'-Methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone varies around the world; in some countries, it is a controlled substance, while in others, it is legal to buy, possess, and distribute. It is always important to check the legal status in your own country before purchasing.

See also

• Mephedrone
• Methylone
• Ethylone