Published in:
Open Access 01-07-2020 | Short Communication
25C-NBOMe short characterisation
Published in: Forensic Toxicology | Issue 2/2020
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Purpose
N-Methoxybenzyls, a group of toxic phenylethylamine derivatives of the 2C family compounds, are a new class of potent serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist hallucinogens with potential harmful effects. This study summarizes current state of knowledge of one of the most dangerous representative of this group—N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-chlorophenethylamine (25C-NBOMe). Due to hallucinogenic properties similar to those observe after lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) usage (altered thoughts, feelings, and awareness of one’s surroundings), this compound is very attractive to hallucinogenic substances users.
Methods
An exhaustive literature search was carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar and other biomedical data bases without limiting period, to identify relevant articles.
Results
Despite frequent recreational use, knowledge about the 25C-NBOMe action and toxic and fatal consequences is still very limited. Most data on this drug come from clinical reports, from cases of acute fatal and non-fatal intoxications. Some animal and in vitro studies indicated a route of metabolism of the drug in the body. The drug and its metabolites were also detected in human blood and urine using combinations of chromatographic separation and mass spectrometry detection.
Conclusions
Overall, findings show that 25C-NBOMe is a powerful hallucinogen. Easy online availability, low prize and the lack of knowledge of 25C-NBOMe makes this substance potentially very dangerous to its users. Thus, further investigation on the mechanism of action, chemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties is needed to evaluate 25C-NBOMe potential harmful effects.