DOx & Mephedrone
DOx compounds are a class of substituted phenethylamines, which are structurally related to compounds like mescaline and the more widely known psychedelics such as LSD. These compounds are primarily characterized by their ability to affect the serotonin system in the brain, specifically by acting as serotonin receptor agonists, especially at the 5-HT2A receptor. When ingested, DOx compounds interact with these receptors, leading to alterations in perception, mood, and cognition. The structural differences between DOx compounds and other psychedelics lie in the addition of various groups, such as methoxy or ethoxy groups, at different positions on the phenethylamine structure.
For instance, 2C-D, one of the more well-known members of the DOx family, has a methoxy group attached at the 2-position on the phenethylamine backbone, which makes it more potent in its psychedelic effects compared to similar compounds. DOx compounds tend to have a longer duration of action than traditional psychedelics, with effects often lasting 12-24 hours, which is longer than substances like LSD or psilocybin. This extended duration is partially due to their pharmacokinetics and the way they bind to serotonin receptors, often creating a prolonged psychoactive experience.
Besides their impact on serotonin receptors, DOx compounds can also have effects on other neurotransmitter systems, though these effects are less well understood. There is some evidence that they may interact with dopamine and norepinephrine systems, contributing to their stimulant-like effects in certain cases. These compounds can produce effects such as visual and auditory hallucinations, altered sense of time, and intense emotional experiences, all of which are common to psychedelics.
Compounds like DOX, DOI, and DOM are examples of DOx compounds, each varying slightly in their chemical structure and, as a result, in their potency and the specific effects they induce. DOM, for example, is a highly potent compound in this class and is known for its intense and long-lasting psychedelic effects.
Mephedrone is a synthetic stimulant belonging to the substituted cathinone family and it works by affecting the brain’s monoamine neurotransmitter systems. When ingested, mephedrone increases the release of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine while simultaneously inhibiting their reuptake. This dual action leads to an accumulation of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, resulting in enhanced stimulation of the reward centers and other neural circuits.
Its chemical structure, which is similar to that of amphetamine and MDMA, allows it to act as both a stimulant and an empathogen. The increase in dopamine is largely responsible for the feelings of euphoria, heightened energy, and increased motivation, while the elevated levels of serotonin contribute to the mood-lifting and sociable effects that users often experience. At the same time, the rise in norepinephrine levels results in physiological responses such as increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure.
Mephedrone’s effects tend to be rapid in onset and relatively short-lived, prompting some users to take repeated doses to maintain the desired effects, which can increase the risk of adverse side effects. The combination of these actions on multiple neurotransmitter systems not only explains the acute psychological and physical effects of mephedrone but also underlines potential risks like cardiovascular strain, neurotoxicity, and psychological dependence associated with its use.
The combination of a DOx compound and mephedrone could produce an intense and potentially risky synergy due to their overlapping and distinct pharmacological actions.
When combined, these substances could lead to an amplification of both their stimulating and serotonergic effects, potentially increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome, which manifests as confusion, hyperthermia, tremors, and autonomic instability.
The stimulant properties of both substances may also place a heavy strain on the cardiovascular system, leading to tachycardia, hypertension, and a heightened risk of vasoconstriction-related complications.
Psychologically, the combination could enhance euphoria but also increase anxiety, paranoia, and delusional thinking, especially as DOx compounds are known for their unpredictable and sometimes overwhelming headspaces. Since DOx substances have a slow onset and long duration, there is also a risk of redosing mephedrone in an attempt to prolong or adjust the experience, which could lead to dangerous levels of stimulation and neurotoxicity.
Overall, this combination is unpredictable and physically taxing, with a high potential for mental and physiological distress. The long duration of DOx compounds could also lead to prolonged aftereffects, increasing the likelihood of difficult comedowns, insomnia, and potential psychological destabilization.
Due to the absence of direct studies on this specific combination, the exact effects remain speculative.
All things considered, we recommend avoiding this combination.
Last edited by a moderator: