Synthetic cathinones: a new generation of stimulant drugs

Synthetic cathinones are psychoactive substances that have emerged over the past two decades. Derived from chemical modifications of cathinone, a molecule naturally found in the khat plant (Catha edulis), they mimic the effects of classic stimulants such as cocaine, MDMA, or amphetamines.

New psychoactive substances (NPS) include these cathinones, as well as other substances that attempt to reproduce the effects of existing illicit drugs like ecstasy/MDMA, amphetamines, cocaine, cannabis, or LSD. However, most of these NPS are much more potent, more dangerous, and more addictive than the drugs they imitate, which increases the risks for users.

Widely used in party scenes and in the context of chemsex, these drugs are particularly concerning due to their powerful effects, high addiction potential, and serious health risks.

 

 

Main Synthetic Cathinones

Since the ban of many substances in Europe, new cathinones regularly appear on the black market. Some have gained significant popularity and are now closely monitored by health authorities.

 

3-MMC (3-methylmethcathinone)

3-MMC is a synthetic drug very close to mephedrone (4-MMC), banned in France in 2010. It appeared as a legal substitute before itself being classified as a controlled substance on August 18, 2022.

 

Desired effects:

• Sensation of euphoria and intense physical stimulation
• Increased sociability and disinhibition
• Accelerated heart rate and alertness

 

Risks and dangers:

• Strong psychological dependence and compulsive use
• Panic attacks, paranoia, hallucinations
• Cardiovascular and neurological disorders
• Dehydration and hyperthermia

 

Its relatively low cost makes it a cheap alternative to cocaine, which explains its widespread use in certain party scenes and in the context of chemsex, a practice combining substance use and prolonged sexual activity.

 

 

4-MMC (4-methylmethcathinone)

4-MMC, also called mephedrone, is a synthetic cathinone that was widely used in party scenes before being banned in France in 2010. It was one of the first synthetic drugs to gain popularity, notably because of its effects similar to MDMA, but with a shorter and more compulsive action, leading to repeated use.

 

Desired effects:

• Sensation of euphoria and intense physical stimulation
• Increased sociability and disinhibition
• Feeling of increased energy and elevated heart rate

Risks and dangers:

• Rapid dependence with risk of overconsumption
• Hypertension and cardiovascular disorders
• Agitation, panic attacks, and paranoia
• Severe insomnia and mental confusion

 

Its powerful stimulant effect and rapid onset made it a highly sought-after substance, especially in party scenes and chemsex, where it was used to prolong sexual activity. Its ban led to the emergence of new cathinones, including 3-MMC, which took over until its ban in 2022.

 

 

Other Synthetic Cathinones

Many other molecules have appeared after the ban of 3-MMC and 4-MMC, often with slightly modified structures to circumvent legislation:

• alpha-PVP: nicknamed "flakka," known for its extremely powerful effects and neurotoxic potential.
• N-ethylpentylone: often sold as MDMA, but with much more dangerous effects.
• Mephedrone-like (3-CMC, 4-CMC, 4-FMC, etc.): chemical variants developed after the ban of the most well-known cathinones.

 

 

An Ever-Changing Market

The progressive ban of synthetic cathinones has led to the emergence of new molecules with slightly modified compositions to bypass the law. This phenomenon complicates monitoring and makes risk prevention difficult.

These substances are mainly purchased via the darknet or through specialized dealers who take advantage of the lack of regulation to offer cathinones not yet banned.

 

 

Cathinones and Chemsex

Cathinones, especially 3-MMC and 4-MMC, are frequently used in chemsex, a practice that involves using drugs to prolong and intensify sexual activity.

They increase endurance and disinhibition but also expose users to major risks:

• Increased risky sexual encounters and higher transmission of STIs
• Psychological dependence and compulsive use
• Paranoid states and psychotic episodes

 

The Pierre Palmade case, which occurred in February 2023, highlighted the dangers linked to these practices and their impact on public health.

 

 

Detection of Cathinones in Urine

In response to the rise of new synthetic drugs, it is essential to have reliable and accurate screening tests.

The Drugdiag® T 6 synthetic drug urine test allows detection of all synthetic cathinones currently used, including 3-MMC, 4-MMC, and their derivatives.

Thanks to its advanced technology, it offers a fast and effective solution to identify these substances, both for health professionals and law enforcement.

 

 

Conclusion

Synthetic cathinones represent a major public health challenge due to their rapid spread, high addictive potential, and serious risks they cause.

Despite their progressive ban, new variants regularly appear, making prevention and detection more difficult. The Drugdiag® 6T urine test is an essential tool to detect these substances and reduce the risks associated with their use.