PsychonautWiki Archive

NEP: Difference between revisions

← Older editNewer edit →
>Unity
>Unity
SummarySheet, fixed a FUBARed intro, naming, grammatics. Removed headerpanel.
Line 1: Line 1:
{{proofread}}
{{distinguish2|[[Pentedrone]]}}
{{distinguish2|[[Pentedrone]]}}
{{Template:SubstanceBox/N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone}}
{{SummarySheet}}
{|
{{SubstanceBox/N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone}}
|-
|-
| ''[[N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone/Summary|Summary sheet: N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone]]''
|}
'''N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone''' (also known as '''N-Ethylpentedrone''' or more commonly, '''NEP''') is a novel synthetic [[psychoactive class::stimulant]] compound belonging to the substituted [[psychoactive class::cathinone]] class. N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone's stimulation is believed to be caused by its affinity as an NDRI ([[norepinephrine]]-[[dopamine]] reuptake inhibitor); however, there have been no scientific studies confirming this. It may also act as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor or releasing agent in moderate to high doses, although this is only speculation.


N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone is closely related to [[pentedrone]], with an added ethyl group on the carbon chain containing the nitrogen. This addition makes it about 3x as potent as pentedrone.{{citation needed}} N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone is also closely related to [[N-Ethylhexedrone]] (commonly known as ''Hexen''), and has been reported as being similar in effect.  
'''N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone''' (also known as '''N-Ethylpentedrone''', '''Ethyl-pentedrone''' or more commonly, '''NEP''') is a novel synthetic [[psychoactive class::stimulant]] substance of the [[psychoactive class::cathinone]] chemical class that produces [[cathinone]]-like [[stimulating]], [[disinhibition|disinhibiting]], [[thought acceleration|thought accelerating]], [[immersion enhancement|immersion enhancing]] and [[euphoria|euphoria|euphoric]] effects when [[Routes of administration|administered]]. The effects of stimulating effects of NEP is believed to be caused by its affinity as a [[norepinephrine]]-[[dopamine]] [[reuptake inhibitor]] (NDRI); however, there have been no scientific studies confirming this. It may also act as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor or releasing agent in moderate to high doses, although this also has yet to be scientifically validated.  


N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone first became known in the [[research chemical]] market during 2016. Little research exists about both N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone and its parent compound [[pentedrone]]. All dosage information found on the internet should be treated with caution. It is an example of a contemporary [[designer drug]] specifically chosen to mimic/replace the functional and structural features of its popular potent and short-lived-type stimulant predecessors, which are sometimes imprecisely referred to as "bath salts". Little research exists about N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone as well as its parent compound [[pentedrone]], particularly with regards to its toxicity, addiction and abuse potential. Due to its novelty and extremely short history of human usage, all information related to the use of this compound should be treated with extreme caution. It is strongly recommended that one use [[responsible drug use|harm reduction practices]] when choosing to use this substance.
NEP shares a close structural relationship to [[pentedrone]], differing by an addition ethyl group on the terminal nitrogen on the carbon chain. This addition reportedly makes it about three times as potent as pentedrone.{{citation needed}} NEP is also closely related to [[N-Ethylhexedrone]] (commonly known as ''Hexen''), and has been reported as producing largely-similar effects.
 
NEP first became known in the [[research chemical]] market during 2016. It is an example of a contemporary [[designer drug]] specifically chosen to mimic/replace the functional and structural features of its popular potent and short-lived-type stimulant predecessors, which are sometimes imprecisely referred to as "bath salts".As with its parent compound [[pentedrone]], very little data exists about the pharmacological properties, metabolism, and toxicity of NEP. Due to its novelty and extremely short history of human usage, all information related to the use of this compound should be treated with extreme caution. It is highly advised that one use [[responsible drug use|harm reduction practices]] if choosing to use this substance.


==Chemistry==
==Chemistry==
N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone is a [[Substituted cathinone|cathinone]], which means that it features a [[phenethylamine]] core with an alkyl group attached to the alpha carbon and an oxygen group attached to the beta carbon. Cathinones are beta-ketone analogues of [[amphetamine]]s. Cathinones refer to a class of molecules which are principally constituted of a [[phenethylamine]] core with an alkyl group attached to the alpha carbon and an oxygen group attached to the beta carbon. They are also known as the beta-ketone (double-bonded oxygen to the β-carbon) analogs of [[amphetamine]]s. The cathinone backbone can be modified in three different places to create hundreds of possible compounds, which include substituents on the aromatic ring, the alpha carbon, and the amine group.<ref>Liu, C., Jia, W., Li, T., Hua, Z., & Qian, Z. (n.d.). Identification and analytical characterization of nine synthetic cathinone derivatives N-ethylhexedrone, 4-Cl-pentedrone, 4-Cl--EAPP, propylone, N-ethylnorpentylone, 6-MeO-bk-MDMA, -PiHP, 4-Cl--PHP, and 4-F--PHP. https://doi.org/10.1002/dta.2136</ref>
NEP, or N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone, belongs to the [[Substituted cathinone|cathinone]] chemical class. It features a [[phenethylamine]] core with an alkyl group attached to the alpha carbon and an oxygen group attached to the beta carbon. Cathinones are beta-ketone analogues of [[amphetamine]]s. Cathinones refer to a class of molecules which are principally constituted of a [[phenethylamine]] core with an alkyl group attached to the alpha carbon and an oxygen group attached to the beta carbon. They are also known as the beta-ketone (double-bonded oxygen to the β-carbon) analogs of [[amphetamine]]s. The cathinone backbone can be modified in three different places to create hundreds of possible compounds, which include substituents on the aromatic ring, the alpha carbon, and the amine group.<ref>Liu, C., Jia, W., Li, T., Hua, Z., & Qian, Z. (n.d.). Identification and analytical characterization of nine synthetic cathinone derivatives N-ethylhexedrone, 4-Cl-pentedrone, 4-Cl--EAPP, propylone, N-ethylnorpentylone, 6-MeO-bk-MDMA, -PiHP, 4-Cl--PHP, and 4-F--PHP. https://doi.org/10.1002/dta.2136</ref>


==Pharmacology==
==Pharmacology==
Due to the lack of research regarding the substance, all discussion regarding the pharmacology of it is purely based upon its structure and subjective effect similarities to other [[Substituted cathinone|cathinone]]s such as [[mephedrone]] and others. N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone most likely acts as both a [[dopamine]] and [[norepinephrine]] [[releasing agent]] or [[reuptake inhibitor]]. This allows dopamine and norepinephrine to accumulate within the brain, resulting in [[stimulation|stimulating]] and [[physical euphoria|euphoric]] effects. Additionally, it has been speculated that that it may possess some serotonergic properties, as users have described experiencing mild [[entactogen]]ic effects.  
Due to the lack of research regarding the substance, all discussion regarding the pharmacology of it is purely based upon its structure and subjective effect similarities to other [[Substituted cathinone|cathinone]]s such as [[mephedrone]] and others. NEP most likely acts as both a [[dopamine]] and [[norepinephrine]] [[releasing agent]] or [[reuptake inhibitor]]. This allows dopamine and norepinephrine to accumulate within the brain, resulting in [[stimulation|stimulating]] and [[physical euphoria|euphoric]] effects. Additionally, it has been speculated that it may possess some serotonergic properties, as users have described experiencing mild [[entactogenic]] effects on common to strong doses of this compound.  


==Subjective effects==
==Subjective effects==
{{Preamble/SubjectiveEffects}}                                                                             
{{Preamble/SubjectiveEffects}}                                                                             
===Physical effects===
===Physical effects===
*'''[[Effect::Spontaneous tactile sensations]]''' - High doses of ethyl-pentedrone result in a pleasurable body high characterized by pleasant tingling. 
*'''[[Effect::Stimulation]]''' - In terms of its effects on the user's physical energy levels, NEP can be considered to be extremely stimulating and energetic.  
*'''[[Effect::Stimulation]]''' - In terms of its effects on the user's physical energy levels, ethyl-pentedrone can be considered to be extremely stimulating and energetic.  
*'''[[Effect::Spontaneous tactile sensations]]''' - High doses of NEP result in a pleasurable body high characterized by pleasant tingling.
*'''[[Effect::Dehydration]]''' - Dry mouth and increased sweating can occur after consuming ethyl-pentedrone. Low doses of the substance in question cause minimal dehydration.
*'''[[Effect::Vasoconstriction]]''' - Ethyl-pentedrone can be considered slightly vasoconstricting.
*'''[[Effect::Tactile enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Tactile enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Dehydration]]''' - Dry mouth and increased sweating can occur after consuming NEP. Low doses of the substance in question cause minimal dehydration.
*'''[[Effect::Vasoconstriction]]''' - NEP has been reported as being slightly vasoconstricting.
*'''[[Effect::Abnormal heartbeat]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Increased blood pressure]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Increased heart rate]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Increased heart rate]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Increased perspiration]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Increased perspiration]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Appetite suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Appetite suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Focus enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Temporary erectile dysfunction]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Temporary erectile dysfunction]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Increased blood pressure]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Teeth grinding]]''' - This component can be considered to be less intense when compared with that of [[MDMA]].
*'''[[Effect::Teeth grinding]]''' - This component can be considered to be less intense when compared with that of [[MDMA]].


===Cognitive effects===
===Cognitive effects===
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive euphoria|Euphoria]]'''  
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive euphoria]]'''  
*'''[[Effect::Thought acceleration]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Thought acceleration]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Analysis enhancement]]''' - This effect is mostly present in lower doses when not overshadowed by euphoria.
*'''[[Effect::Analysis enhancement]]''' - This effect is mostly present in lower doses when not overshadowed by euphoria.
*'''[[Effect::Empathy, love, and sociability enhancement]]''' - These feelings of sociability, love and empathy are much weaker and less sharp than those found on substances such as [[MDMA]] but seem to be present at high doses for some users. The presence of this effect has lead many users to speculate that this compound likely functions as a [[serotonin]] [[reuptake inhibitor]] as well as a [[dopamine]] and [[noradrenaline]] reuptake inhibitor.  
*'''[[Effect::Empathy, affection, and sociability enhancement]]''' - These feelings of sociability, love and empathy are much weaker and less sharp than those found on substances such as [[MDMA]] but seem to be present at high doses for some users. The presence of this effect has lead many users to speculate that this compound likely functions as a [[serotonin]] [[reuptake inhibitor]] as well as a [[dopamine]] and [[noradrenaline]] reuptake inhibitor.  
*'''[[Effect::Immersion enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Immersion enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Time distortion]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Focus enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Ego inflation]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Ego inflation]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Disinhibition]]
*'''[[Effect::Disinhibition]]
*'''[[Effect::Increased music appreciation]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Time distortion]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Thought acceleration]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Motivation enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Motivation enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Compulsive redosing]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Compulsive redosing]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Increased music appreciation]]'''


===After effects===
===After effects===
The effects which occur during the [[offset]] of a [[stimulant]] experience generally feel negative and uncomfortable in comparison to the effects which occurred during its [[peak]]. This is often referred to as a "comedown" and occurs because of [[neurotransmitter]] depletion. Its effects commonly include:
The effects which occur during the [[offset]] of a [[stimulant]] experience generally feel negative and uncomfortable in comparison to the effects which occurred during its [[peak]]. This is often referred to as a "comedown" and occurs because of [[neurotransmitter]] depletion. Its effects commonly include:
*'''[[Effect::Anxiety]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Anxiety]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Headaches]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Headaches]]'''
Line 59: Line 58:
*'''[[Effect::Wakefulness]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Wakefulness]]'''


It should be noted that many users of this substance has described the comedown as being particularly “smooth” relative to similar cathinone stimulants, so these effects may not be present to as great of a degree.
It should be noted that many users of this substance report it has relatively smooth [[Durations#Coming down|"come down"]] compared to similar cathinone stimulants, so these effects may not be present to as great of a degree.
 
==Dangerous interactions==
{{DangerousInteractions/Intro}}
*'''[[Stimulants]]''' - NEP can be potentially dangerous in combination with other [[stimulants]] as it can [[increased heart rate|increase one's heart rate]] and [[increased blood pressure|blood pressure]] to dangerous levels.
{{DangerousInteractions/Stimulants}}
*'''[[MDMA]]''' - The neurotoxic effects of MDMA may be increased when combined with [[amphetamine]] and other stimulants.
{{DangerousInteractions/MAOI|nt=dopamine}}
*'''[[Cocaine]]''' - This combination may increase strain on the heart to dangerous, potentially fatal levels.


==Toxicity and harm potential==
==Toxicity and harm potential==
{{Further|Research chemicals#Toxicity and harm potential}}
{{Further|Research chemicals#Toxicity and harm potential}}
The toxicity and long-term health effects of recreational N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone use do not seem to have been studied in any scientific context and the [[Toxicity::exact toxic dosage is unknown]]. This is because N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone has very little history of human usage. Anecdotal evidence from people who have tried N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone within the community suggests that there do not seem to be any acute negative health effects.
The toxicity and long-term health effects of recreational NEP use do not seem to have been studied in any scientific context and the [[Toxicity::exact toxic dosage is unknown]]. This is because NEP has an extremely brief history of human usage. Early anecdotal evidence from people who have tried NEP within the community suggests that there do not seem to be any negative health effects attributed to simply trying this substance at low to moderate doses by itself and using it in a sparing and controlled fashion (but nothing can be completely guaranteed)


It is strongly recommended that one use [[responsible drug use|harm reduction practices]] when using this drug.
It is strongly recommended that one use [[responsible drug use|harm reduction practices]] when using this substance.


===Tolerance and addiction potential===
===Tolerance and addiction potential===
As with other [[stimulant]]s, the chronic use of N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone can be considered [[Addiction potential::moderately addictive with a high potential for abuse]] and is capable of causing psychological dependence among certain users. When addiction has developed, cravings and [[withdrawal effects]] may occur if a person suddenly stops their usage.
As with other [[stimulants]], the chronic use of N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone can be considered [[Addiction potential::moderately addictive with a high potential for abuse]] and is capable of causing psychological dependence among certain users. When addiction has developed, cravings and [[withdrawal effects]] may occur if a person suddenly stops their usage.


Tolerance to many of the effects of N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone [[Time to full tolerance::develops with prolonged and repeated use]]. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that, it takes about [[Time to half tolerance::3 - 7 days]] for the tolerance to be reduced to half and [[Time to zero tolerance::1 - 2 weeks]] to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone presents cross-tolerance with [[Cross-tolerance::all [[dopamine]]rgic [[stimulant]]s]], meaning that after the consumption of N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone all [[stimulant]]s will have a reduced effect.
Tolerance to many of the effects of NEP [[Time to full tolerance::develops with prolonged and repeated use]]. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that, it takes about [[Time to half tolerance::3 - 7 days]] for the tolerance to be reduced to half and [[Time to zero tolerance::1 - 2 weeks]] to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). NEP presents cross-tolerance with [[Cross-tolerance::all [[dopamine]]rgic [[stimulant]]s]], meaning that after the consumption of N-ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone all [[stimulants]] will have a reduced effect.
===Psychosis===
===Psychosis===
{{Main|Stimulant psychosis}}
{{Main|Stimulant psychosis}}
Abuse of compounds within the stimulant class at high dosages for prolonged periods of time can potentially result in a stimulant psychosis that may present with a variety of symptoms (e.g., [[Paranoia|paranoia]], [[External hallucinations|hallucinations]], or [[Delusions|delusions]]).<ref>Treatment for amphetamine psychosis | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003026.pub3/abstract?systemMessage=Wiley+Online+Library+will+be+disrupted+Saturday%2C+15+March+from+10%3A00-12%3A00+GMT+%2806%3A00-08%3A00+EDT%29+for+essential+maintenance]</ref> A review on treatment for amphetamine, [[dextroamphetamine]], and [[methamphetamine]] abuse-induced psychosis states that about 5–15% of users fail to recover completely.<ref>Treatment for amphetamine psychosis | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003026.pub3/abstract?systemMessage=Wiley+Online+Library+will+be+disrupted+Saturday%2C+15+March+from+10%3A00-12%3A00+GMT+%2806%3A00-08%3A00+EDT%29+for+essential+maintenance]</ref><ref>Hofmann FG (1983). A Handbook on Drug and Alcohol Abuse: The Biomedical Aspects (2nd ed.). New York: Oxford University Press. p. 329. ISBN 9780195030570.</ref> The same review asserts that, based upon at least one trial, [[antipsychotic]] medications effectively resolve the symptoms of acute amphetamine psychosis.<ref>Treatment for amphetamine psychosis | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003026.pub3/abstract?systemMessage=Wiley+Online+Library+will+be+disrupted+Saturday%2C+15+March+from+10%3A00-12%3A00+GMT+%2806%3A00-08%3A00+EDT%29+for+essential+maintenance]</ref>
Abuse of compounds within the stimulant class at high dosages for prolonged periods of time can potentially result in a stimulant psychosis that may present with a variety of symptoms (e.g., [[Paranoia|paranoia]], [[External hallucinations|hallucinations]], or [[Delusions|delusions]]).<ref>Treatment for amphetamine psychosis | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003026.pub3/abstract?systemMessage=Wiley+Online+Library+will+be+disrupted+Saturday%2C+15+March+from+10%3A00-12%3A00+GMT+%2806%3A00-08%3A00+EDT%29+for+essential+maintenance]</ref> A review on treatment for amphetamine, [[dextroamphetamine]], and [[methamphetamine]] abuse-induced psychosis states that about 5–15% of users fail to recover completely.<ref>Treatment for amphetamine psychosis | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003026.pub3/abstract?systemMessage=Wiley+Online+Library+will+be+disrupted+Saturday%2C+15+March+from+10%3A00-12%3A00+GMT+%2806%3A00-08%3A00+EDT%29+for+essential+maintenance]</ref><ref>Hofmann FG (1983). A Handbook on Drug and Alcohol Abuse: The Biomedical Aspects (2nd ed.). New York: Oxford University Press. p. 329. ISBN 9780195030570.</ref> The same review asserts that, based upon at least one trial, [[antipsychotic]] medications effectively resolve the symptoms of acute amphetamine psychosis.<ref>Treatment for amphetamine psychosis | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003026.pub3/abstract?systemMessage=Wiley+Online+Library+will+be+disrupted+Saturday%2C+15+March+from+10%3A00-12%3A00+GMT+%2806%3A00-08%3A00+EDT%29+for+essential+maintenance]</ref>
===Dangerous interactions===
{{DangerousInteractions/Intro}}
*'''[[Stimulants]]''' - N-Ethyl-(nor)-pentedrone can be potentially dangerous in combination with other [[stimulant]]s as it can [[increased heart rate|increase one's heart rate]] and [[increased blood pressure|blood pressure]] to dangerous levels.
{{DangerousInteractions/Stimulants}}
*'''[[MDMA]]''' - The neurotoxic effects of MDMA may be increased when combined with [[amphetamine]] and other stimulants.
{{DangerousInteractions/MAOI|nt=dopamine}}
*'''[[Cocaine]]''' - This combination may increase strain on the heart.


==Legal issues==
==Legal issues==
Retrieved from "http://psy.st/wiki/NEP"