Buy 5ME / 5-Methylethylone crystal /CAS 1364933-82-3 / online
Introduction
5-Methylethylone, also known as bk-Methylone derivative, is a synthetic cathinone in the substituted phenethylamine family. These compounds are studied extensively in forensic toxicology, pharmacology, and analytical chemistry due to their stimulant effects and potential for abuse.
The crystalline form of 5-Methylethylone is primarily used in research and laboratory studies, including:
- Structure-activity relationship studies of synthetic cathinones
- Analytical method development for forensic detection
- Toxicological and metabolic profiling
While 5-Methylethylone has appeared in recreational products, it is strictly controlled in most jurisdictions, and legal access is limited to licensed laboratories for research purposes.
Informational: Chemical Identity and Properties
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | 1-(1,3-Benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-(methylamino)butan-1-one |
| Common Names | 5-Methylethylone, bk-Methylone derivative |
| Chemical Formula | C₁₂H₁₅NO₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 221.25 g/mol |
| CAS Number | Not officially assigned / research compound |
| Chemical Class | Synthetic cathinone, beta-keto phenethylamine |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder or crystals |
| Solubility | Soluble in DMSO, methanol, and ethanol; low solubility in water |
| Melting Point | 140–144 °C (crystalline form) |
| Storage Conditions | Store in airtight, light-protected containers at 2–8 °C |
Mechanism of Action
5-Methylethylone acts as a monoamine transporter substrate, affecting dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin signaling. In research settings, it is used to study:
- Neurotransmitter modulation
- Synthetic cathinone pharmacology
- Metabolic pathways and toxicology
Unlike legal pharmaceuticals, this compound is only handled in controlled research environments.
Navigational: Forensic and Analytical Applications
Synthetic cathinones like 5-Methylethylone are frequently encountered in new psychoactive substance (NPS) monitoring.
Key Laboratory Uses
- Reference Standard – Used for calibration in HPLC, LC-MS/MS, and GC-MS studies.
- Metabolic Research – Identification of metabolites in biological matrices.
- Structure-Activity Studies – Understanding neurochemical and behavioral effects.
- Forensic Education – Case studies in toxicology training programs.
Analytical Techniques
| Technique | Purpose | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| LC-MS/MS | Quantification in biological and seized samples | High sensitivity, detects trace levels |
| GC-MS | Structural confirmation | Detects characteristic beta-keto phenethylamine fragments |
| ¹H/¹³C NMR | Structural elucidation | Confirms chemical identity and purity |
| FT-IR | Functional group analysis | Detects ketone and amine functional groups |
These methods ensure accurate identification and differentiation of 5-Methylethylone from other synthetic cathinones.
Commercial: Legal and Licensed Supply
5-Methylethylone is controlled under analogue and NPS laws, but licensed laboratories can legally obtain it for research and analytical purposes.
| Supplier Type | Regulatory Requirement | Permitted Use |
|---|---|---|
| ISO-certified reference material suppliers | Controlled substance license | Analytical calibration and pharmacology studies |
| Academic research labs | Institutional ethics approval | Receptor studies, metabolism studies |
| Forensic laboratories | DEA/National controlled substance permits | Confirmatory testing and training |
| Pharmaceutical research institutions | Controlled chemical permit | Structure-activity relationship research |
Important: All handling must comply with local, national, and international regulations, including chain-of-custody documentation.
Safety Profile and Handling
5-Methylethylone is potent and can pose neurological or cardiovascular risks if mishandled. Safe laboratory protocols are essential.
| Hazard Classification (GHS) | Symbol | Precautionary Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Acute toxicity | ⚠️ | Avoid ingestion or inhalation; use PPE |
| CNS stimulant | ⚠️ | Handle in ventilated hoods |
| Eye/Skin irritation | ⚠️ | Gloves, goggles, lab coat required |
| Environmental hazard | ☣️ | Dispose via licensed chemical waste |
Best Practices:
- Handle in fume hoods or ventilated enclosures
- Store in airtight, light-protected containers at 2–8 °C
- Maintain documentation, labeling, and regulatory compliance
Transactional: Regulatory Status
5-Methylethylone is classified as a controlled synthetic cathinone in many countries.
| Region / Country | Legal Classification | Regulatory Reference |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Schedule I analogue / NPS | DEA Controlled Substances Act |
| European Union | Controlled NPS | EMCDDA early warning system |
| United Kingdom | Class B (Psychoactive Substances Act) | Home Office, 2016 |
| Canada | Schedule III analogue | Health Canada Controlled Drugs and Substances Act |
| Australia | Schedule 9 Poison | Therapeutic Goods Administration |
✅ Only licensed laboratories may legally acquire 5-Methylethylone crystals for research, analytical, or educational purposes.
Comparative Table: 5-Methylethylone vs Related Synthetic Cathinones
| Compound | Chemical Class | Potency | Research Use | Legal Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Methylethylone | Beta-keto phenethylamine | Moderate | Analytical, metabolic research | Controlled |
| Methylone | Beta-keto amphetamine | High | Pharmacology and metabolism | Controlled |
| Ethylone | Beta-keto amphetamine | Moderate | Pharmacological studies | Controlled |
| MDVP | Pyrrolidinophenone | Very High | Neurotoxicity & forensic | Controlled |
This table helps researchers and forensic analysts understand structural, potency, and regulatory differences among synthetic cathinones.
Research and Forensic Significance
5-Methylethylone is critical for:
- Updating NPS databases for law enforcement and toxicology labs
- Developing analytical standards for LC-MS/MS and GC-MS
- Studying synthetic cathinone metabolism and toxicity
- Training forensic professionals in modern NPS detection
Although recreational use is illegal, its research applications support public health, forensic science, and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
5-Methylethylone crystals are a significant synthetic cathinone for research, analytical, and forensic purposes. Handling this compound requires licensed, compliant laboratories, proper safety measures, and strict adherence to legal regulations.
For analytical chemists, toxicologists, and pharmacologists, 5-Methylethylone provides a valuable research tool for understanding cathinone pharmacology, metabolism, and detection methods.
Keywords
5-Methylethylone crystal • synthetic cathinone research • BK-Methylone derivative • forensic toxicology NPS • analytical reference standard • controlled substance research • beta-keto phenethylamine • NPS laboratory studies
