Methylphenethylamine

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Methylphenethylamine (MPEA) is a chemical compound and substituted phenethylamine. It is positioned within the phenethylamine class as a monoamine alkaloid. Methylphenethylamine is a trace amine and it is found naturally in certain species of cacti. It is also a constituent of many over-the-counter dietary supplements.

Chemistry[edit | edit source]

Methylphenethylamine is a phenethylamine derivative. The chemical structure consists of a phenethylamine backbone with a methyl group attached to the nitrogen atom. This structure is similar to other phenethylamine derivatives, such as amphetamine and methamphetamine, which are potent central nervous system stimulants.

Natural Occurrence[edit | edit source]

Methylphenethylamine is found naturally in certain species of cacti, including the San Pedro cactus and the Peruvian Torch cactus. It is also found in trace amounts in the human body, where it acts as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Methylphenethylamine is used in the production of certain dietary supplements. It is believed to have stimulant effects, although these effects are not as strong as those of other phenethylamine derivatives, such as amphetamine and methamphetamine.

Safety and Legal Status[edit | edit source]

The safety of methylphenethylamine is not well-studied. It is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical uses. In many countries, including the United States, it is legal to sell and possess methylphenethylamine, but it is not legal to sell it as a dietary supplement or for human consumption.

See Also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD