Isohexylone

Isohexylone is a psychoactive drug of the cathinone class that has been sold online as a designer drug. It is a derivative of hexedrone, where the methyl group attached to the nitrogen atom is replaced by an isohexyl group.

Chemistry

Isohexylone is a synthetic cathinone. Cathinones are structurally similar to amphetamines, they contain a phenethylamine core featuring a phenyl ring bound to an amino (NH2) group through an ethyl chain with an additional methyl substitution at Rα. Cathinones such as isohexylone are alpha-methylated phenethylamines. However, cathinones bear a keto group bound to the beta carbon (Rβ), this addition distinguishes them from amphetamines and grants them the name β-keto-amphetamines.

Pharmacology

The pharmacology of isohexylone is not well known. However, as a cathinone, it is presumed to act 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.

Effects

The effects of isohexylone can be compared to other stimulants such as methamphetamine and cocaine. These effects may include intense and prolonged euphoria, increased sociability, increased energy and stamina, increased sexual desire, and increased alertness. However, it may also cause negative side effects such as insomnia, paranoia, and potentially dangerous increases in heart rate and blood pressure.

Legal Status

The legal status of isohexylone varies by country, but it is often considered a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction. In many jurisdictions, it is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess isohexylone.

See Also

• Cathinone
• Designer drug
• Psychoactive drug
• Stimulant