Methylone: A Research Reference Overview

bk mdma| Methylone, also known as bk-MDMA or 3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone, is a synthetic cathinone that emerged as a significant research chemical in the late 2000s. At Foreverchems, we provide methylone exclusively as a qualified reference material for laboratory research and forensic analytical applications.

Chemical Profile

Methylone is the beta-keto analogue of MDMA, distinguished by the addition of a ketone group on the phenethylamine side chain. Its IUPAC name is 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-(methylamino)-1-propanone, with a molecular formula of C₁₁H₁₃NO₃ and a molecular weight of approximately 207.23 g/mol. The CAS number is 186028-79-5. The compound contains a chiral center, existing as a racemic mixture of two enantiomers.

Pharmacologically, methylone acts as a non-selective substrate at serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine transporters. Research has demonstrated that methylone is among the most potent cathinones in inhibiting serotonin and dopamine uptake, with its pharmacological profile comparable to MDMA but with slightly reduced potency.

Research Context and Legal Status

Methylone emerged on the research chemical market around 2005, initially marketed as “bath salts” or “plant food” under names including “Explosion,” “Ease,” and “MDMCAT.” The compound was commonly imported from China via the Internet for use in the United States, particularly at clubs and social gatherings .

In the United States, the DEA exercised emergency scheduling authority in October 2011 to control methylone as a Schedule I substance, citing an imminent threat to public safety . This was followed by a Final Rule in April 2013 permanently placing methylone into Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act . The DEA has documented cases involving methylone distribution resulting in overdose deaths, with the substance sold under street names including “Molly,” “M1,” and “rolls” .

Internationally, the World Health Organization’s Expert Committee on Drug Dependence reviewed methylone and recommended placement in Schedule II of the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, a recommendation supported by multiple governments including Germany and Spain .

Quality Standards at Foreverchems

Every batch of methylone reference material undergoes comprehensive analytical verification. Our products are accompanied by certificates of analysis documenting purity levels, chemical identity, and relevant spectroscopic data. We maintain complete batch records for all reference materials, with HPLC and mass spectrometry data available for each lot.

Documentation and Compliance

Foreverchems provides certificates of analysis and technical documentation to support analytical and forensic research requirements. Our quality assurance framework includes standardized testing protocols and multi-stage verification processes.

Important Notice

Methylone is a controlled substance in numerous jurisdictions worldwide. It is listed in Schedule I of the United States Controlled Substances Act and is controlled under Schedule II of the 1971 Convention in many countries . Researchers must verify their legal authority to handle such materials and comply with all applicable regulations in their location. Our products are supplied strictly for laboratory research and analytical reference purposes and are not intended for human consumption.