Ethylidenedioxyamphetamine

Ethylidenedioxyamphetamine (EDA) is a psychoactive drug and a member of the phenethylamine family. It is often classified as a substituted amphetamine, which refers to a broad group of substances based on the amphetamine structure.

Chemistry

EDA is a substituted phenethylamine, meaning it consists of a phenethylamine core featuring additional substitutions. Its structure is comprised of a phenyl ring bound to an amino (NH2) group through an ethyl chain with an additional ethyl group bound to Rα. EDA is substituted at R3 and R4 of its phenyl ring with two methoxy groups. It is also substituted at Rα with an ethyl group.

Pharmacology

The pharmacological mechanisms of EDA are not well understood. However, it is known that many substituted amphetamines, like EDA, act primarily as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine releasing agents. This means they effectively increase the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain by inducing the release of these neurotransmitters from their storage sites in neurons.

Effects

The effects of EDA can vary greatly depending on the dose, the user's individual physiology, and the method of administration. Common effects reported by users include feelings of euphoria, increased energy, enhanced empathy and sociability, and altered perception of time. However, EDA can also produce a number of undesirable effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and insomnia.

Legal Status

The legal status of EDA varies by country. In many jurisdictions, it is classified as a controlled substance, making its manufacture, distribution, or possession illegal.

See Also

• Amphetamine
• Methamphetamine
• MDMA
• Phenethylamine