2F-DCK HCl (2-Fluorodeschloroketamine Hydrochloride) Product Description

Introduction

2F-DCK HCl, or 2-Fluorodeschloroketamine hydrochloride, is a synthetic dissociative arylcyclohexylamine closely related to ketamine. It is structurally defined by the substitution of a fluorine atom at the ortho (2-) position on the phenyl ring, replacing the chlorine atom in ketamine. The hydrochloride salt form enhances water solubility, facilitating formulation for laboratory research. 2F-DCK HCl is exclusively for scientific research purposes, including pharmacology, toxicology, and forensic analysis, and bears no approved therapeutic use.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

Structural and Molecular Characteristics

Physical Properties and Purity Standards

• Appearance: White crystalline powder or solid salt form, highly pure and amenable to reproducible laboratory dosing.

• Purity: Typically ≥ 98% purity verified by chromatographic techniques.

• Solubility: Highly soluble in water due to hydrochloride salt, also soluble in polar solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF), ethanol, methanol, and phosphate-buffered saline (pH 7.2).

• Storage Recommendations: Store in airtight, light-resistant containers at low temperatures (2-8°C). Avoid moisture and heat exposure to maintain chemical integrity.

Pharmacological Profile and Mechanism of Action

Proposed Mechanism of Action

2F-DCK HCl acts primarily as a non-competitive antagonist at NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) glutamate receptors, inhibiting excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system. This blockade induces dissociative anesthesia, analgesia, and perceptual changes typical of arylcyclohexylamine dissociatives. The fluorine substitution modulates lipophilicity, receptor binding affinity, and metabolic stability compared to ketamine, leading to a potentially prolonged duration of effect. Cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2B6 and CYP3A4 metabolize 2F-DCK through N-demethylation producing Nor-2F-DCK and secondary metabolites.

Research Applications

The compound supports research into NMDA receptor pharmacology, neurobehavioral studies of dissociative anesthetics, and toxicology. Its water-soluble hydrochloride form facilitates in vitro and in vivo experimental applications and forensic detection. Additionally, 2F-DCK HCl serves as an important comparator in studies of ketamine analogs, exploring structure-activity relationships and metabolism.

Comparative Analysis with Related Compounds

Comparison to Ketamine and Other Analogs

2F-DCK HCl is a ketamine analog differing primarily by fluorine substitution that influences pharmacokinetics and receptor interactions. Compared to ketamine, 2F-DCK shows altered binding affinity and slower metabolism, which may extend its effects. Compared with deschloroketamine (DCK) and other arylcyclohexylamines, it exhibits differing potency and metabolic profiles, useful in comparative pharmacological research.

Advantages for Research

• Enhanced aqueous solubility via hydrochloride salt for diverse experimental formats.

• Unique fluorine substitution facilitates detailed study of NMDA antagonism and pharmacokinetics.

• Consistency in purity and formulation improves reproducibility of research results.

Safety and Handling Guidelines

Laboratory Safety

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, lab coats, and eye protection. Handle within well-ventilated laboratories or fume hoods to minimize inhalation and dermal exposure risks. Careful weighing and handling procedures are required due to potent pharmacology.

Disposal and Environmental Considerations

Adhere to institutional hazardous waste disposal protocols. Use containment to prevent environmental release.

Regulatory Status

Classified as a controlled research chemical worldwide in many regions. Use limited to licensed laboratories for scientific investigation only.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How does 2F-DCK HCl differ from freebase 2F-DCK?

• The hydrochloride salt is significantly more water-soluble, facilitating broader research applications.

2. What is the mechanism of 2F-DCK HCl?

• Non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonism producing dissociative effects.

3. What are common solvent options for 2F-DCK HCl?

• Water, DMSO, DMF, ethanol, methanol, and buffered aqueous solutions.

4. What is the typical purity of research-grade 2F-DCK HCl?

• Generally ≥ 98%.

5. Is 2F-DCK HCl legal?

• It is heavily regulated and its use is restricted to authorized research.

Conclusion

2F-DCK HCl is a high-purity, water-soluble ketamine analog offered in salt form for advanced research applications involving NMDA receptor pharmacology. Its distinctive fluorinated chemical structure and hydrochloride formulation present important tools for anesthesia, dissociation, and forensic toxicology research under regulated laboratory conditions.