N Methyl Beta Phenylethylamine Hcl
Also known as: β-Methylphenethylamine (BMPEA), N-methylphenethylamine, N-Methyl-β-phenylethylamine HCl, β-Methylphenethylamine
Overview
β-Methylphenethylamine (BMPEA) is a synthetic compound structurally related to phenethylamine (PEA) and amphetamines. It is not naturally occurring and is primarily found as an ingredient in nootropic and weight loss supplements, although it has no approved medical uses. Research on BMPEA is currently in the preclinical stage, involving only animal models, and the overall quality of evidence is low due to the absence of human randomized controlled trials and limited mechanistic data. It is believed to act as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. BMPEA is sold as a hydrochloride salt to improve stability. Due to structural similarities with amphetamines, caution is advised regarding potential cardiovascular effects and interactions with other medications.
Benefits
Currently, there are no human clinical trials demonstrating the benefits of β-Methylphenethylamine. Preclinical data from animal studies suggest potential for self-administration, indicating a risk of abuse. In vitro studies show that BMPEA acts as a TAAR1 agonist, which could modulate dopamine and serotonin systems. While some proponents suggest cognitive benefits similar to phenethylamine, such as improved working memory and mood, these claims lack direct evidence. The absence of human data and the limited scope of existing research necessitate caution regarding any purported benefits.
How it works
β-Methylphenethylamine primarily works by acting as an agonist of the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), which modulates the dopamine and serotonin systems in the brain. This mechanism is similar to that of other phenethylamines, which can influence neurotransmitter release and reuptake. Additionally, BMPEA may act as a substrate for monoamine oxidase (MAO), similar to phenethylamine, potentially affecting its metabolism. The oral bioavailability of BMPEA is presumed to be poor, akin to phenethylamine, which has a short half-life. Metabolism likely occurs in the liver via MAO and PNMT pathways, producing β-phenylacetic acid.
Side effects
Due to limited research, the full spectrum of side effects associated with β-Methylphenethylamine is not well-defined. Animal studies have not reported significant toxicity, but human risks are largely unknown. Given its structural similarity to amphetamines, potential cardiovascular effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure are a concern. There is a theoretical risk of interaction with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which could lead to serotonin syndrome. No established safety thresholds exist for BMPEA in humans. It is contraindicated with MAOIs and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Caution is advised due to the lack of comprehensive safety data.
Dosage
There are no established human dosage guidelines for β-Methylphenethylamine due to the lack of clinical trials. Preclinical studies in animals have used effective doses of 1.5-6 mg/kg via intravenous injection. Extrapolating this to humans suggests an equivalent dose of approximately 0.24-0.96 mg/kg. The hydrochloride (HCl) salt form is likely used to improve stability compared to the free base. However, without human data, any dosage recommendations are speculative and potentially unsafe. It is crucial to avoid using BMPEA until rigorous human trials establish safe and effective dosage ranges.
FAQs
Is this a natural ingredient?
No, β-Methylphenethylamine is a synthetic analog and does not occur naturally in food sources. It is created in a laboratory.
Does it help with focus?
There is no human evidence to support claims that β-Methylphenethylamine improves focus. Any purported benefits are based on theoretical mechanisms only.
Is it safe to take with antidepressants?
β-Methylphenethylamine is contraindicated with MAOIs and SSRIs due to the potential risk of serotonin syndrome, a dangerous drug interaction.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9590234/ – This rat self-administration study (n=14 BMPEA, 6 saline) found that BMPEA maintained self-administration, indicating potential for abuse. The study showed a statistically significant difference compared to saline controls (p<0.0001). However, it had limitations including no toxicity assessment and a short duration.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9864394/ – This medicinal chemistry review examined conformationally restricted phenethylamines and their receptor specificity. While the review provides insights into phenethylamine derivatives, it does not offer direct data on N-methyl-β derivatives, limiting its direct applicability to BMPEA.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/11/1567 – This in vitro study found that β-substituted PEAs act as TAAR1 agonists. While the study demonstrates receptor activation, it does not report EC50 values, making it difficult to quantify the potency of BMPEA. The study provides mechanistic insights but lacks in vivo data.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phenethylamine – This Wikipedia article provides general information about phenethylamine, including its structure, properties, and metabolism. It serves as a background reference for understanding the broader class of compounds to which BMPEA belongs.
- https://nootropicsexpert.com/phenylethylamine/ – This website provides general information about phenylethylamine, including potential benefits and mechanisms of action. It should be noted that this is not a peer-reviewed source and information should be verified with primary research.
