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In recent months, European drug-checking services have seen an increasing number of cases involving samples labeled as 3-MMC (Meow Meow) that instead contain other, significantly more potent cathinones. N-ethylpentedrone (NEP) is detected particularly frequently, either as the sole substance or as a component of mixtures containing other cathinones. The situation is particularly acute in France, the French-speaking region, and Berlin. Many samples sold there as 3-MMC contain only NEP or NEP in combination with other substances. Other European drug-checking services are also reporting similar observations.
In Switzerland, initial trends are pointing in the same direction, particularly with regard to 3-MMC samples. Since April 2025, not a single sample declared as 3-MMC at the DIZ has actually contained 3-MMC. Currently, the most common substances we detect in 3-MMC samples are 2-MMC, 4-MMC, 3-CMC, 4-CMC, alpha-PVP, NEP, and, increasingly, mixtures of multiple active ingredients. For 4-MMC (mephedrone), the picture has been less pronounced so far. At the DIZ in Zurich, these samples predominantly do indeed contain 4-MMC.
Like 3-MMC and 4-MMC, NEP belongs to the cathinone class of substances, but differs significantly in its effects and duration of action. 3-MMC and 4-MMC are usually described as warm, mildly euphoric, and empathogenic, with a short duration of action ranging from two to four hours. Even in small amounts, NEP is noticeably more potent and, above all, lasts significantly longer. Studies show that NEP has a half-life of nearly 13 hours, whereas 3-MMC is metabolized much more quickly in the body. This means that with repeated use, the doses consumed can accumulate, potentially leading to unintended overdoses. NEP primarily affects dopamine and norepinephrine systems, while 3-MMC also affects serotonin. The empathogenic (“connecting”) effects that make 3-MMC appealing to many are therefore largely absent in NEP. Users describe the effects of NEP as cold, stimulating, and less connecting. According to user reports, the urge to take another dose (“craving”) is also particularly strong.
Anyone who unknowingly consumes NEP thinking it is 3-MMC will almost inevitably take too high a dose. The effects set in differently than expected, feel more intense and physically more overwhelming, and users report delusions of being followed, paranoid episodes, insomnia, and prolonged restlessness. Frequently reported acute side effects also include severe palpitations, overheating, and intense inner restlessness.
Added to this is the growing number of mixtures. Drug-checking services are detecting two or three cathinones simultaneously in an increasing number of samples, with their effects and dosage ranges sometimes differing significantly. Such combinations and their risks are difficult to assess, as the effects and duration of action can overlap. Even without additional mixed use, such a sample can lead to unexpectedly strong or long-lasting effects. Against this backdrop, testing after purchase or using drug-checking services after purchase is currently more important than ever. Even those who have already consumed the same product once or obtain it from the same source should treat every new sample as an unknown substance.
