AKA: Explosion, MDMC, bk-MDMA

BACKGROUND:

First appeared for sale in Smart Shops in the Netherlands at the end of 2004 under the brand name ‘Explosion’. It is a stimulant drug with psychedelic properties, belonging to the cathinone chemical family and is a close structural analogue of MDMA.

LEGAL STATUS:

>    Illegal.
>    Class B under the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971). ).
>    Illegal to possess (maximum penalty five years in jail) or supply (maximum penalty 14 years in jail).

EFFECTS:

Similar to other stimulant drugs, including mental alertness, euphoria, a sense of calm wellbeing and closeness to others or empathy. Mild psychedelic effects have also been reported, such as enhanced colour perception. Side-effects include restlessness and inability to sleep, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting.

RISKS:

Loss of sense of self or reality, hallucinations, and psychosis with high doses or excessive use.

LONG-TERM EFFECTS:

Little is known about the long-term effects of methylone.