Synthetic cathinones

Overview

Synthetic cathinones are a group of stimulant substances related to cathinone, the main psychoactive substance in khat (Catha edulis). Cathinone itself is chemically similar to amphetamine, and is internationally controlled. Synthetic cathinones are the second largest category of NPS monitored by the EU EWS. They are marketed as ‘legal’ replacements to controlled stimulants, such as amphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine.

lab tube with spilled cathinone white salt on black background

Featured

representation of the chemistry of synthetic cathinones

Interactive: synthetic cathinones

Using this interactive tool you can select different combinations of substituents and build up to 60 synthetic cathinone molecules to find out more about the synthetic cathinones that are being monitored by the EU Early Warning System.