MDPBP

• NRG-1

Stimulant drug of abuse, structurally similar to synthetic cathinones. MDPBP has been suggested to be the main component of NRG-1 in the UK, however the NRG series is notably unreliable in consistently containing the same chemical compounds; forensic analysis frequently report products sold as NRG-1 as containing other syntheticcathinones such as mephedrone, butylone, naphyrone, or MDPV, in addition or extraneously to MDPBP. Therefore NRG-1 is synonymous, but may not be indicative, of a compound containing MDPBP. MDPBP itself is derived from pyrovalerone; toxicity is likely similar to amphetamines &cathinones, allowing such impurities in NRG-1 to be missed unless analysed. In the United States, MDPBP and other synthetic cathinones have been seen in “bath salts” as a new designer drug.

Symptoms often resemble that of amphetamine compounds;however effects may be more prolonged. These may include: euphoria, increased alertness, intensified emotions and boosted self-esteem. Further effects include: a racing heartbeat, palpitations, chest pain, agitation, excessive sweating, raised temperature, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, tremor/shaking and elevated blood pressure. Anxiety, dizziness, sleep disturbances, teeth grinding, muscle twitching, poor concentration, depression and short term memory loss are also common following the use of stimulants, which frequently affect mental health. Convulsions, hallucinations, and skin rashes have also been reported in some users. Nasal irritation and nose bleeds may occur after snorting/keying or inhalation. In severe cases, stroke, heart attacks, kidney failure and liver damage may occur after the use of NRG-1 and other similar compounds to amphetamines.