Mephedrone also known as “meow meow”, “M-Cat”, “4-MMC”

30 March 2010

What is mephedrone?

4‐Methylmethcathinone is a synthetic psyschoactive stimulant that is chemically similar to methcathinone.  It is part of the cathinone group of compounds which are derivatives of phenylamines which include amphetamine.  Cathinone is a Class C drug in the UK and derivatives of cathinone are not controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Mephedrone is most commonly available as powder or tablet.  However it is an offence to sell it for human consumption under the Medicines Act 1968 to sell it for human consumption to get around this piece of legislation it is often sold as "plant food".

What does it do?

It produces effects similar to those of MDMA also known as ecstasy. Effects include: mental and physical stimulation, increased sociability, talkativeness, pleasurable rush, decreased appetite, change in body temperature, increased heart rate, dilated pupils and sweating.
When taken orally it takes between 15-45 minutes to take full effect, whilst when snorted effects are felt within a few minutes and peak is reached within 30 minutes. Primary effects last 2-3 hours. The after effects can last up to 4 hours after primary effects have faded.  After low levels of consumption the day after effects are mild or unnoticeable.

How much does it cost?

It costs around £3 for a dose, with 1g selling for approximately £10.  Bulk purchases up to 1kg are significantly discounted by retailers with a kilogram selling for between £1,900- £5,000.

Dose:

Oral doses are similar to MDMA doses, hence mephedrone tablets will be similar in size and appearance to ecstasy tablets.

Scientific investigation

There has been little scientific investigation of mephedrone. Therefore no information is available on the interaction of mephedrone with other drugs. However, it is thought to have become available in 2007. The UK government are due to review the drug’s legality during 2010 and it could be classified by the end of April.

References:

http://www.cph.org.uk/showPublication.aspx?pubid=614
http://www.manchesterpubandclub.co.uk/2010/01/13/pubs-on-guard-for-mephedrone-users/
http://naughtyplantfood.com/