Category

Stimulant

Also known as

4MMC, Meph, M-cat, Magic, Plant Food

Similar substances

Methylone, Methedrone, Bubbles

What it looks like and how it's taken

These substances are part of the 'Cathinone' group of drugs. Cathinone is a naturally occurring stimulant found in the khat plant and cathinones are a group of drugs related to amphetamine compounds like ecstasy. Cathinone derivatives such as Mephedrone and MCAT come in capsules and powders and are sometimes mixed with other cathinones and caffeine. They are usually snorted or swallowed.

Immediate effects

Effects are those of a stimulant somewhat like MDMA. It may produce euphoria, alertness, talkativeness and feelings of empathy. But also anxiety and paranoid states in some.

Risks

Short term: Severe nosebleeds have been reported after snorting as well as anxiety and paranoia. There is also the risk of over-stimulating the heart and the nervous system, which would increase the chances of having a fit.

Long term: Some reports say it can be compulsive to use and create a state of psychological dependence. It has recently been made illegal in a number of countries due to growing evidence of harms, including a reported possible cause of death in Sweden in 2008.

Legal status

Currently it is illegal under medicines legislation to sell, supply or advertise these cathinone compounds for human consumption.
Cathinone is controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, but substituted cathinones, which include: 4-methylmethcathinone (mephedrone, 4-MMC); 4-methoxymethcathinone (methedrone) and the cathinone analogue of MDMA, methylone are currently not controlled. As a priority of the Advisory Council on Misuse of Drugs' thematic review, it will be looking at these 'cathinones' compounds. Its advice will inform government's response to these substances.

Learn more about drugs and the law.