3-MEC (3-Methylethcathinone) Product Description

Introduction

3-MEC, also known as 3-Methylethcathinone or 3-methylethcathinone hydrochloride, is a synthetic cathinone research chemical structurally characterized by a methyl substituent at the 3-position of the phenyl ring and an ethylamino group on the side chain. It is a member of the substituted cathinone family, closely related to ethcathinone and mephedrone analogs. 3-MEC is primarily used in scientific research settings for studying stimulant pharmacology and neurochemical effects. It is supplied as a high-purity crystalline powder or hydrochloride salt suitable for laboratory use.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

Structural and Molecular Characteristics

Physical Properties and Purity Standards

• Appearance: White crystalline powder or hydrochloride salt.

• Purity: Research-grade purity generally ≥ 98%, confirmed by chromatographic and spectrometric analysis.

• Solubility: Soluble in water (hydrochloride salt), ethanol, methanol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and dimethylformamide (DMF).

• Storage Recommendations: Store in airtight, light-protected containers under cool and dry conditions. Refrigerate between 2°C and 8°C for optimal stability.

Pharmacological Profile and Mechanism of Action

Proposed Mechanism of Action

3-MEC acts as a releasing agent and reuptake inhibitor of monoamines with a focus on dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters. It promotes synaptic release and inhibits reuptake at dopamine (DAT), norepinephrine (NET), and serotonin (SERT) transporters, leading to elevated extracellular monoamine levels that exert stimulant effects. Its methyl substitution influences potency, pharmacokinetics, and transporter binding selectivity compared to related cathinones.

Research Applications

Employed in neuropharmacology to evaluate stimulant properties, addictive potential, and neural transporter dynamics. It assists toxicological research and forensic screening due to its structural novelty and emerging recreational use as a designer drug.

Comparative Analysis with Related Compounds

Comparison to 3-MMC and Ethcathinone

3-MEC differs from 3-MMC by the presence of an ethylamino rather than methylamino group, altering its pharmacological profile and potency. Compared with ethcathinone, 3-MEC contains an additional methyl group on the phenyl ring which modifies its transporter affinity and metabolic characteristics. These variations contribute to research distinguishing structure-activity relationships of substituted cathinones.

Advantages for Research

• High chemical purity and well-characterized pharmacological activity facilitate reliable experimental outcomes.

• Supports detailed investigation of the effects of side-chain and ring methyl substitutions on stimulant action.

• Valuable in forensic and toxicological research focusing on novel psychoactive cathinones.

Safety and Handling Guidelines

Laboratory Safety

Appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, lab coats, and eye protection must be worn. Handling should be conducted inside fume hoods or well-ventilated laboratories to reduce inhalation and dermal contact exposure.

Disposal and Environmental Considerations

Dispose of chemical waste in compliance with hazardous materials regulations. Prevent contamination with appropriate containment and neutralization.

Regulatory Status

3-MEC is regulated as a research chemical and controlled in many jurisdictions. Its use is restricted to licensed scientific research only.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the mode of action of 3-MEC?

• It functions as a monoamine releaser and reuptake inhibitor primarily targeting dopamine and norepinephrine.

2. How pure is research-grade 3-MEC?

• Typically ≥ 98% purity.

3. What solvents dissolve 3-MEC?

• Water (for hydrochloride salt), ethanol, methanol, DMSO, and DMF.

4. In what ways does 3-MEC differ from 3-MMC?

• 3-MEC has an ethylamino side chain, whereas 3-MMC has a methylamino group, influencing potency and pharmacokinetics.

5. Is 3-MEC legal?

• Its usage is regulated and limited to authorized laboratory research.

Conclusion

3-Methylethcathinone (3-MEC) is a high-purity synthetic cathinone research chemical with unique stimulant properties derived from its methyl substitution and ethylamino side chain. It is essential for research into monoamine transporter pharmacology, toxicology, and forensic analysis of new psychoactive substances.