3-Methylmethcathinone? Nope, 4-MMC

We’ve been getting samples sold as 4-methylmethcathinone (Mephedrone, 4-MMC), but there has been discussion online and some submitters have suggested that much of what is sold as 4-MMC is, in fact, 3-MMC. The argument is that the positional isomer, with the methyl on the 3 position, has similar effects, but is not strictly controlled in some jurisdictions where 4-MMC is specified, but positional isomers are not covered under some countries’ laws.

We obtained a 3-MMC standard from Cayman this week and DDL ran it through their equipment and re-ran a recent sample that a submitter said might be 3-MMC. The standard for 3-MMC had a distinct retention time in the GC (Gas Chromatograph), meaning that it is easy to differentiate as a different chemical from 4-MMC. While the Mass Spectrum fingerprints of 3-MMC and 4-MMC are nearly identical, the different retention times cause the two chemicals to show up as two separate “peaks” in the GC output.

See EcstasyData 4178.