3C-E: Unveiling the Enigmatic Psychedelic

Summary

3,5-Dimethoxy-4-ethoxyamphetamine, commonly known as 3C-E or 3C-Escaline, stands as a synthetic psychedelic compound within the amphetamine chemical class. Despite its nomenclature hinting at potential ties to the 2C-x family, it is crucial to note that 3C-E diverges, aligning itself with the structure of escaline—a mescaline analogue, distinguished by an additional carbon, classifying it as a substituted amphetamine. First synthesized by Alexander Shulgin, details of its properties were published in his book PiHKAL in 1991. In contemporary settings, 3C-E is sought after for both recreational and research purposes, exclusively available through online vendors operating in a regulatory gray area. However, the understanding of its effects remains limited, with a notable emphasis on a potent body high and modest visual stimuli.

Chemistry

The molecular composition of 3C-E or 3,5-Dimethoxy-4-ethoxyamphetamine positions it within the substituted amphetamine class. This class is characterized by phenethylamines featuring a phenyl ring linked to an amino (NH2) group via an ethyl chain, and an alpha carbon (Rα) hosting a methyl group. In specific, 3C-E incorporates methoxy functional groups (OCH3) attached to carbons R3 and R5, alongside an ethoxy chain (OCH2CH3) affixed to carbon R4 of the phenyl ring.

Pharmacology

Contrary to initial assumptions based on its nomenclature, 3C-E is not related to the 2C-x family. Rather, it emerges as the 3-carbon analog of escaline, a distinction reflected in its nomenclature.

The pharmacological profile of 3C-E suggests a robust interaction with 5-HT2A receptors. This interaction opens avenues for potential applications, such as alleviating cluster headaches or mitigating the psychological distress associated with end-stage cancer. The psychedelic effects attributed to 3C-E are believed to stem from its efficacy as a partial agonist at the 5-HT2A receptor. Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms underpinning these interactions and their manifestation in the psychedelic experience continue to elude comprehensive understanding.

Conclusion

3C-E, with its enigmatic structure and psychedelic potential, remains an intriguing subject of study. As research progresses, a more nuanced comprehension of its effects, pharmacology, and potential applications may emerge, shedding light on this synthetic compound's place within the realm of psychedelics.

FAQ

Q1: What exactly is 3C-E?

A: 3C-E, or 3,5-Dimethoxy-4-ethoxyamphetamine, is a synthetic psychedelic compound classified within the amphetamine chemical class.

Q2: Is there a relationship between 3C-E and the 2C-x family?

A: Despite its name suggesting a connection, 3C-E is not related to the 2C-x family. It stands as the 3-carbon analog of escaline.

Q3: Who pioneered the synthesis of 3C-E?

A: Alexander Shulgin is credited with the initial synthesis of 3C-E, documented in his 1991 book, PiHKAL.

Q4: What comprises the molecular structure of 3C-E?

A: 3C-E is a substituted amphetamine, featuring a phenyl ring, an amino (NH2) group, and a methyl group attached to the alpha carbon Rα. Methoxy functional groups (OCH3) and an ethoxy chain (OCH2CH3) are also present.

Q5: How does 3C-E interact with receptors?

A: 3C-E exhibits robust interaction with 5-HT2A receptors, potentially influencing applications such as headache prevention or easing psychological distress in end-stage cancer patients.

Q6: What contributes to the psychedelic effects of 3C-E?

A: The psychedelic effects of 3C-E are believed to arise from its efficacy as a partial agonist at the 5-HT2A receptor. However, the exact mechanisms remain unclear.

Q7: Are there medical applications for 3C-E?

A: The pharmacological profile of 3C-E suggests potential applications, including the prevention of cluster headaches and alleviating psychological suffering in end-stage cancer patients.

Q8: Where can one acquire 3C-E?

A: 3C-E is exclusively available through online vendors operating in a regulatory gray area for recreational and research purposes.

Q9: Are there safety precautions associated with 3C-E use?

A: Due to limited knowledge, caution is advised. Users should be aware of potential risks and adhere to responsible use practices.

Q10: What is the current understanding of 3C-E?

A: 3C-E remains an intriguing subject of study, and ongoing research may provide a more nuanced comprehension of its effects, pharmacology, and potential applications.