N-methylphenethylamine

N-Methylphenethylamine (NMPEA) is a trace amine and monoamine alkaloid that occurs naturally in a number of plants. It is also a metabolite of the phenethylamine-class drug amphetamine.

Chemistry

NMPEA is a substituted phenethylamine, which is a class of compounds that also includes important neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. It is structurally similar to these neurotransmitters and to other trace amines, which are naturally occurring compounds that interact with neurotransmitter receptors in the brain.

Natural occurrence

NMPEA is found in a number of plant species, including Acacia and Citrus species. It is also a metabolite of the drug amphetamine, which means it is produced in the body during the metabolism of this drug.

Pharmacology

The pharmacological effects of NMPEA are not well understood. It is known to act as an agonist at trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), a receptor in the brain that is involved in the regulation of neurotransmitter release. However, the clinical significance of this action is not clear.

Toxicity

The toxicity of NMPEA is not well studied. However, due to its structural similarity to other phenethylamines, it is possible that it could have similar toxic effects. These could potentially include cardiovascular effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as neurological effects such as seizures.

See also

• Phenethylamine
• Amphetamine
• Trace amine