5-APB

• 5-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran

The benzofuran compounds are derivatives from the phenethylamine and amphetamine classes of substances that have effects similar to speed (amphetamine) and Ecstasy (MDMA). The term Benzofury was originally describing 6-APB, however the name is currently used interchangeably for 5-APB and 6-APB as differentiation between both isomers in laboratory analysis is difficult. The benzofuran compounds, including their simple derivatives, are being permanently controlled as Class B drugs under the 1971 Act using a generic definition with the intention that control will capture a range of compounds and therefore both current and future or foreseeable substances. The benzofuran compounds are inserted into Schedule 1 to the 2001 Regulations and will only be available for research or other special purpose under a Home Office licence as they have no recognised legitimate medicinal uses.

Several deaths have been attributed to the use of benzofuran compounds.

Similar to Ecstasy (MDMA), euphoria, increased energy, empathy with others, feeling 'in tune' with surroundings and music. Other effects may include insomnia, increased heart rate and temperature, anxiety, nausea & vomiting, headache, panic attacks, confusion, agitation & aggression, paranoia, increased alertness, intensify emotions and boost self-esteem. In addition tremor, sweating, dilated pupils, agitation, confusion, headache, anxiety, vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures, hallucinations or delusions. chest pain, palpitations, dyspnoea, systemic hypotension or hypertension may occur. Narrow-complex tachycardias are common; ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation may occur. Hyperpyrexia may be severe. Metabolic acidosis may also occur.

Heart damage due to cardiac poisoning, psychosis.