The stimulating effect of 4-MMC can lead to hyperactivity that is perceived as unpleasant, a strong increase in blood pressure and palpitations (or an unpleasant feeling in the heart area). Delusions and paranoia can occur, especially when high doses are consumed. Consumers also report unpleasant body odour, changes in body temperature (feeling cold/sweating), skin rashes, headaches and weight loss. According to experience reports, increased nervousness and moodiness can occur when coming down. Long-lasting insomnia, as well as impairment of short-term memory and memory lapses can also occur. The strong craving (strong urge to redose) - especially with nasal consumption - is described as particularly unpleasant.

Mephedrone primarily causes an increased release of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline and therefore has a general energising effect.

Possible long-term consequences have not yet been sufficiently researched. Due to the strong urge to take more, it can easily lead to psychological dependence. Frequent use can intensify the negative effects and lead to the development of tolerance (increasing amounts of the substance must be consumed in order to achieve the desired effect). Users who consume regularly also report impaired memory and a deterioration in concentration.

• Psychological problems, restlessness or anxiety
• High blood pressure
• Pregnancy
• Cardiovascular problems
• Liver or kidney damage
• Epilepsy
• HIV

If 4-MMC is consumed despite the health risks, the following rules should be observed in addition to general risk reduction advice:

• Only consume when you are physically and mentally healthy, in a pleasant environment and with people you trust.
• Use your own sniffing tube and do not use banknotes.
• Use drug checking! The active ingredient content and cutting agents can vary greatly.
• Dose low to test the effect. Wait and see before redosing.
• Avoid mixed consumption with other substances, especially with other stimulants (e.g. speed, high amounts of caffeine or energy drinks). It is a strong strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Mephedrone can be psychologically addictive. Take breaks from consumption.
• Avoid consumption in cases of cardiovascular disease, liver disease, asthma and epilepsy.
• Do not consume during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Look out for each other. Talk to your friends if you're not feeling well.
• Do not take part in road traffic if you have consumed

4-Methylmethcathinone (commonly known as 4-MMC, mephedrone) is chemically related to cathinone, the stimulating active ingredient of the cath shrub, and methcathinone (ephedrone). 4-MMC has a stimulating, euphoric and empathogenic effect and is available as a powder or in tablet form. Mephedrone is one of the so-called research chemicals, i.e. it is largely unexplored, so there is hardly any scientific knowledge about the mechanisms of action, risks, long-term effects and possible dangers of mixed consumption. Knowledge about its effects, dosage and risk reduction is therefore based almost exclusively on user reports.

Mephedrone is covered by the Narcotic Substances Act (SMG). The acquisition, possession, import and export, transfer to and procurement for others (transfer and sale) are punishable by law. Consumers who violate the SMG must expect a mandatory visit to a public health officer (in Vienna: the outpatient centre of the Addiction and Drug Coordination). There, health-related measures may be ordered and a drug test may be expected. If you adhere to these requirements, there will be no court proceedings.