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N-ethylpentedrone (NEP) and 4-CMC sold as cocaine
Risk assessment
A sample declared as cocaine did not contain cocaine, but rather N-ethylpentedrone (NEP), 4-CMC, caffeine, and lidocaine.
N-ethylpentedrone (also known as N-ethyl-nor-pentedrone or NEP) is, like 4-MMC, a synthetic cathinone. Both substances are new psychoactive substances (NPS). NEP has been poorly researched, and there is very little reliable information available on dosage, side effects, toxicity, and long-term effects. N-ethylpentedrone is dosed at lower levels than cocaine. In cases of mislabeling, as in this case, there is therefore a high risk of overdose and severe side effects such as overstimulation, circulatory problems, and anxiety.
Users report stimulating, euphoric, and slightly entactogenic effects when consuming N-ethylpentedrone. The side effects when coming down are described as unpleasant. The following side effects have also been reported: headaches, anxiety, irritability, depression, lack of drive/motivation, and bouts of weakness. It must also be assumed that the use of N-ethylpentedrone can trigger a strong craving for further use.
4-CMC belongs to the cathinone group and is structurally related to 3-MMC. 4-CMC is described as having a strong performance-enhancing and euphoric effect. Some users report severe headaches and kidney or liver pain in the days following consumption. In addition, it has been reported that the substance can trigger a strong urge to take more, which increases its addictive potential. 4-CMC is suspected of being highly neurotoxic. No information is available on other risks, side effects, and long-term effects of 4-CMC. Due to the potentially strong neurotoxic effects of 4-CMC, we advise against its use!
There is little information available on the effects, side effects, and long-term consequences of these two substances. Consuming these substances therefore carries unknown risks. Regular consumption and high doses further increase the potential risks. If you still decide to consume these substances, we strongly recommend that you follow the safer use messages / safer use tips . Due to the lack of information and the associated difficulty in assessing the risks, we advise against regular use.
Caffeine and lidocaine were also detected in this sample. Caffeine enhances the stimulating effect of 4-CMC and NEP, which can cause heart palpitations, restlessness, and increased strain on the cardiovascular system. The combination of 4-CMC, NEP, caffeine, and lidocaine can lead to unpredictable interactions that can be physically and psychologically stressful and harmful to health.
Misdeclaration of powders and crystalline samples is common, so be sure to have them tested before consumption.
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Safer Use
Analysis
Have your substances tested in a Drug Checking
Testing
If you do not have the possibility to have substances analysed, always test a small amount to avoid overdoses.
Wait and see
Wait 2 hours after oral intake, as there are always powders / crystals in circulation with unexpected active ingredients, which can have a later onset of action.
Utensils
When snorting or injecting powders, always use your own equipment to avoid infecting yourself or others with diseases.
Disclaimer
If you are in possession of a substance that does not appear on this page, this in no way means that it contains the expected ingredient or that it should be safe. The warnings we publish only refer to the substances listed in our Drug Checking offers, these substances pose a high risk of consumption and should not be consumed. A substance may have the same visual appearance (shape, size, colour, etc.) and yet have different ingredients or a different composition. There is no drug use without risk! Only a complete renunciation of drugs is risk-free! If you still decide to use drugs, you should at least follow the safer use rules.
