Recently, checkit! has increasingly analysed ecstasy tablets with unexpected ingredients. These included some tablets that contained various synthetic cathinones, among other things. Here are some examples

 What are synthetic cathinones?

Synthetic cathinones are classed as research chemicals and were originally marketed as a legal alternative to illegal stimulants such as MDMA or cocaine. Cathinones are now covered by the NPSG (New Psychoactive Substances Act) and some are also included in the SMG (Narcotic Substances Act). The best known include mephedrone (4-MMC), MDPV and methylone (bk-MDMA).

In principle, cathinones have a stimulating effect. However, they differ in their respective mode of action, i.e. how, where, how long and how strongly they work. The effect of some is therefore more similar to MDMA, while others are more similar to cocaine or methamphetamine. Some compounds trigger a strong desire to consume more, which is why they have a high potential for addiction.

As many synthetic cathinones are poorly researched substances, no reliable statements can be made about the risks and long-term effects. Therefore, the combination with other substances often poses an unpredictable risk. Combining cathinones with other stimulants can put a heavy strain on the cardiovascular system. Some synthetic cathinones are also suspected of being neurotoxic.

Safer Use:

• Use drug checking if possible! The appearance of a tablet says nothing about the ingredients.
• If you don't have the option of drug checking, Consume only small amounts at first and wait for the effect.
• Don't add to it straight away. Some substances only develop their full effect after a longer period of time.

More information about Substances can be found here: https://checkit.wien/substanzen/

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