The proliferation of research chemicals in recent years has led to a booming market, with many online vendors offering these substances for sale. Among the various compounds available, 2C-C has garnered attention as a designer drug that falls into the category of research chemicals. However, critically examining the 2C-C research chemical market and its sellers raises several concerns.
First and foremost, the online availability of 2C-C and similar research chemicals is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it provides researchers with access to compounds that may have scientific merit for exploring potential therapeutic applications or understanding the intricacies of the human mind. On the other hand, it opens the door to potential misuse and abuse by individuals seeking recreational highs or attempting to skirt legal restrictions.
The credibility of research chemical sellers is a significant issue. Many vendors operate in a legal gray area, exploiting regulatory gaps to sell these compounds. This lack of oversight raises questions about product quality, safety, and authenticity. Researchers purchasing 2C-C online may be exposed to substances that differ in purity and composition from what is advertised. The absence of rigorous quality control measures can have dire consequences for scientific experiments and, more importantly, for the health and safety of individuals using these substances.
Furthermore, the ethical dimension of selling 2C-C and similar compounds cannot be overlooked. While some vendors may claim to cater exclusively to researchers, the reality is that these substances often end up in the hands of recreational users. The marketing and sale of such substances can inadvertently contribute to the proliferation of designer drugs, undermining public health efforts to control substance misuse.
Contents
- 1 Summery
- 2 Chemistry
- 3 Pharmacology
- 4 Subjective effects
- 5 Toxicity
- 6 Legal status
- 7 FAQ
- 7.1 1. What is 2C-C?
- 7.2 2. Is 2C-C Legal?
- 7.3 3. How is 2C-C Typically Administered?
- 7.4 4. What Are the Effects of 2C-C?
- 7.5 5. How Long Do the Effects of 2C-C Last?
- 7.6 6. What Are the Risks and Side Effects of 2C-C Use?
- 7.7 7. Is 2C-C Safe?
- 7.8 8. Can 2C-C Be Used Therapeutically?
- 7.9 9. Is 2C-C Addictive?
- 7.10 10. Are There Any Drug Interactions with 2C-C?
- 7.11 11. Can 2C-C Cause Overdose?
- 7.12 12. Is 2C-C Legal for Research Purposes?
- 8 References
Summery
4-Chloro-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine, commonly referred to as 2C-C, belongs to the phenethylamine class of psychedelics and is known for inducing psychedelic experiences when ingested.[1] It is a member of the 2C-x family, a group of psychedelic phenethylamines resulting from deliberate modifications to the mescaline molecule.
The origins of 2C-C trace back to 1983, when it was initially synthesized by Alice C. Cheng and Neal Castagnoli Jr. This synthesis was part of a study aimed at assessing the neurotoxicity of analogs of 6-hydroxydopamine.[2] Subsequently, Alexander Shulgin delved into its effects on humans and chronicled his findings in his book “PiHKAL” (Phenethylamines I Have Known and Loved).
Users commonly describe 2C-C as producing milder, more relaxed, and more soothing psychedelic effects than closely related compounds like 2C-B, 2C-I, and 2C-E. Among the 2C-x family, it ranks as one of the least potent, exhibiting subdued visual alterations and maintaining a relatively straightforward mental state.
Our understanding of the pharmacology, metabolism, and toxicity of 2C-C remains limited due to scant available data. Its history of human use is relatively brief. It is sought after for recreational and potential therapeutic applications in contemporary times. While it seldom appears in street-level drug markets, it can be found online, often classified as a research chemical operating within a legal gray area.
Identifiers | |
---|---|
CAS Number | 88441-14-9 |
3D model (JSmol) | Interactive image |
ChEMBL | ChEMBL124733 |
ChemSpider | 21106221 |
PubChem CID | 29979100 |
UNII | 0RO7MZY2LS |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | DTXSID80893699 |
showInChI | |
showSMILES | |
Properties | |
Chemical formula | C10H14ClNO2 |
Molar mass | 215.6778 g/mol |
Melting point | 220 to 221 °C (428 to 430 °F; 493 to 494 K) |
Chemistry
2C-C, or 2,5-dimethoxy-4-chlorophenethylamine, is a phenethylamine derivative characterized by a phenyl ring connected to an amino (NH2) group through an ethyl chain. This compound features methoxy functional groups (CH3O-) linked to carbon atoms at positions R2 and R5 and a chlorine atom attached to carbon R4 within the phenyl ring structure. 2C-C is classified within the 2C family of phenethylamines, distinguished by the presence of methoxy groups at the 2 and 5 positions of the benzene ring.
Pharmacology
The psychedelic effects attributed to 2C-C are thought to stem from its activity as a partial agonist at the 5-HT2A receptor. Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms underlying these interactions and their contribution to the psychedelic encounter remain an area of active scientific exploration and inquiry.
Subjective effects
Important Note: The following descriptions reference the Subjective Effect Index (SEI), which relies on anecdotal user accounts and analyses contributed by the PsychonautWiki community. As such, it’s advisable to approach these descriptions with skepticism.
Recognizing that the effects mentioned may not consistently manifest predictably is essential. Higher doses are more likely to induce the complete spectrum of effects. Still, it’s crucial to acknowledge that escalating doses also elevate the risk of adverse outcomes, including addiction, severe harm, or even fatality ☠.
Physical:
- Stimulation & Sedation: The 2C-C experience typically commences with mild stimulation but gradually transitions towards a somewhat sedating state. Interestingly, it lacks the typical energetic sensation associated with most phenethylamines, often described as an “intense form of relaxation” [1].
- Spontaneous Physical Sensations: Users commonly report a pleasurable, warm, gentle, all-encompassing tingling sensation, often called the “body high.” This sensation gradually intensifies from the onset and peaks during the experience.
- Bodily Control Enhancement: Lower doses of 2C-C may enhance bodily control, but this effect tends to be suppressed at higher dosages.
- Increased Physiological Responses: This compound may increase blood pressure, body temperature, and perspiration. However, it appears to have a less pronounced effect on heart rate than related substances.
- Muscle Cramps: At very high doses, 2C-C has been known to induce random muscle tightening, which can become uncomfortable.
- Nausea: Nausea is a possible side effect, although it is relatively mild compared to other phenethylamines like 2C-E, 2C-I, or 2C-B. It typically diminishes quickly and is considered one of the more subtly physically impactful psychedelics.
- Dehydration: Users may experience dehydration.
- Pupil Dilation: Pupils may dilate during the experience.
- Tactile Enhancement: Heightened tactile sensations may be observed.
- Teeth Grinding: Teeth grinding, while present, tends to be less intense than substances like MDMA.
Visual:
- Enhancements: Visual enhancements may include improved color perception, pattern recognition, and visual acuity.
- Distortions: Visual distortions can manifest as drifting (melting, flowing, breathing, and morphing), color shifting, and tracers.
- Geometry: The visual geometry associated with 2C-C is more akin to that of 2C-B rather than substances like Psilocin, 2C-E, or ayahuasca. These geometric patterns are unstructured, algorithmic in style, intricate yet smooth in motion, colorful, glossy, and sharp-edged.
- Hallucinatory States: 2C-C can induce hallucinatory states, typically at higher doses. These states may encompass transformations, internal hallucinations (featuring autonomous entities, settings, sceneries, landscapes, and intricate plots), and external hallucinations embedded within the visual field.
Cognitive:
- Thought Processes: Users often describe the cognitive headspace of 2C-C as insightful and relatively straightforward, even at moderate to high doses.
- Empathy and Sociability: Enhanced feelings of empathy, affection, and sociability are more pronounced in social settings but less intense than those induced by substances like MDMA or 2C-B.
- Analysis Enhancement: Introspective and analytical thinking is typically experienced in non-social settings when the user is alone.
- Conceptual Thinking: Enhanced capacity for conceptual thinking.
- Emotion Enhancement: Heightened emotional experiences.
- Immersion Enhancement: A sense of heightened immersion in the environment.
- Increased Music Appreciation: Music is often more enjoyable during the experience.
- Increased Libido: An increase in sexual desire may occur.
- Increased Sense of Humor: Humor is often heightened.
- Memory Suppression: 2C-C typically does not suppress memory unless consumed at high doses.
- Ego Death: Dissolving is rare with 2C-C, primarily occurring at very high doses.
- Mindfulness: Increased mindfulness may be experienced.
- Novelty Enhancement: The user may perceive heightened novelty in their surroundings.
- Personal Bias Suppression: Reduced personal bias in thinking.
- Thought Acceleration: Accelerated thought processes.
- Time Distortion: Altered perception of time passage.
- Wakefulness: Some users report the ability to sleep after the peak effects have subsided due to 2C-C’s relaxing nature.
Auditory:
- Auditory Enhancement: Sound perception may be enhanced.
- Auditory Distortion: Auditory distortion is less common, typically occurring at higher doses.
- Auditory Hallucination: Auditory hallucinations may occur at higher doses.
Transpersonal:
- Unity and Interconnectedness: This effect, unlike some other psychedelics, typically occurs only at very high doses.
These descriptions are based on user reports and should be approached with caution. High doses of 2C-C may lead to unpredictable and potentially harmful outcomes.
Toxicity
The toxicity and potential long-term health consequences of recreational 2C-C use remain largely unstudied in a scientific context, primarily due to its status as a research chemical with limited human usage history. Consequently, the precise toxic dosage is unknown.
Based on anecdotal reports from individuals who have experimented with this compound, no immediate adverse health effects appear to be linked to trying 2C-C at low to moderate doses when used sparingly. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that no guarantees can be made regarding individual reactions. Therefore, thorough independent research should always precede the consumption of any combination of substances to ensure safety.
Practicing harm reduction measures is strongly recommended when using 2C-C.
Tolerance and Potential for Addiction:
While no formal studies have been conducted, it is reasonable to assume that, like many psychedelics, 2C-C is not likely to be habit-forming, and the desire to use it may even decrease with continued use.
Tolerance to 2C-C’s effects does not appear to develop immediately after ingestion. Similar to 2C-B, there seems to be no noticeable tolerance buildup when used repeatedly over a few days. However, 2C-C does create cross-tolerance with other serotonergic psychedelics, meaning that after using 2C-C, the effects of all psychedelics may be diminished.
Dangerous Interactions: Warning: Several psychoactive substances that are typically safe when used alone can become hazardous or even life-threatening when combined with specific other substances. The following list highlights some known dangerous interactions (although it may not encompass all).
Conduct independent research (e.g., using search engines or scientific databases like PubMed) to ensure the safety of combining two or more substances. Some interactions listed here are sourced from TripSit.
- Lithium: Lithium is commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder treatment. Anecdotal evidence suggests that combining it with psychedelics significantly elevates the risk of psychosis and seizures. Therefore, this combination is strongly discouraged.
- Cannabis: Cannabis can unexpectedly potentiate the effects of 2C-C, leading to a potentially intense and unpredictable synergy. Caution is advised, as this combination may significantly increase the likelihood of adverse psychological reactions such as anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, and even psychosis. Users should start with a fraction of their usual cannabis dose and take extended breaks between consumption to avoid unintentional overdose.
- Stimulants: Stimulants like amphetamine, cocaine, or methylphenidate impact various brain regions and alter dopaminergic function. Combining them with 2C-C can heighten the risk of anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, and thought loops. There is also an increased risk of mania and psychosis associated with this interaction.
- Tramadol: Tramadol is known to lower the seizure threshold, and psychedelics may potentially trigger seizures in susceptible individuals. Therefore, combining tramadol with psychedelics is not recommended due to the potential risk involved.
Legal status
Australia: Australia enforces a comprehensive prohibition on all substituted phenethylamines, including the entire 2C-X family.
Austria: 2C-C is illegal to possess, produce, and distribute under the NPSG (Neue-Psychoaktive-Substanzen-Gesetz Österreich). It is classified under Schedule II, with further details specified in the NPSV (Neue-Psychoaktive-Substanzen-Verordnung Österreich), which bans all substituted phenethylamines.
Brazil: Possession, production, and sale of 2C-C are prohibited as listed on Portaria SVS/MS nº 344.
Canada: 2C-C is classified as Schedule III due to its derivation from 2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine.
China: Since October 2015, 2C-C is a controlled substance in China.[9]
Germany: 2C-C is regulated under Anlage I BtMG (Narcotics Act, Schedule I) since December 13, 2014. Manufacturing, possessing, importing, exporting, purchasing, selling, obtaining, or dispensing it without a valid license is unlawful.
Japan: 2C-C is governed by the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law in Japan, rendering its possession and sale illegal.
Latvia: 2C-C is categorized as a Schedule I controlled substance in Latvia.
Sweden: 2C-C is classified as a controlled substance.
Switzerland: 2C-C is recognized as a controlled substance, explicitly listed under Verzeichnis E.
United Kingdom: In the United Kingdom, 2C-C is classified as a Class A drug due to including the phenethylamine catch-all clause.[17]
United States: As of July 9, 2012, 2C-C is designated as a Schedule I substance in the United States under the Food and Drug Administration Safety and Innovation Act of 2012. This makes possession, distribution, and manufacturing illegal without the appropriate DEA license.
FAQ
1. What is 2C-C?
2C-C is a synthetic psychedelic compound belonging to the 2C family of phenethylamines. It is known for its psychoactive effects, often categorized as a research chemical, and is sometimes used recreationally.
2. Is 2C-C Legal?
The legal status of 2C-C varies by country and region. In many places, it is considered a controlled substance and is illegal to manufacture, possess, or distribute. Always check your local laws before considering its use.
3. How is 2C-C Typically Administered?
2C-C is commonly ingested orally. It can be found as a powder or in pill form. The powder form may be mixed with a liquid or placed inside capsules for consumption.
4. What Are the Effects of 2C-C?
The effects of 2C-C can include altered perception of time, visuals (such as enhanced colors and patterns), changes in mood, and an altered sense of self. It may also induce mild stimulation and increased sensory perception. The intensity and nature of these effects can vary from person to person.
5. How Long Do the Effects of 2C-C Last?
The duration of 2C-C effects typically ranges from 4 to 8 hours, with the peak effects occurring within the first few hours of ingestion.
6. What Are the Risks and Side Effects of 2C-C Use?
2C-C, like other psychedelics, can have both short-term and long-term risks. Short-term risks may include anxiety, paranoia, nausea, increased heart rate, and hallucinations. Long-term effects and risks are less well-understood, and more research is needed.
7. Is 2C-C Safe?
The safety of 2C-C is a topic of ongoing debate. While it may not be as potent or well-studied as other psychedelics, it carries potential risks, mainly when misused or in high doses. It should only be used under the supervision of a knowledgeable and experienced individual and in a controlled and safe environment.
8. Can 2C-C Be Used Therapeutically?
Some individuals and researchers have explored the potential therapeutic applications of 2C-C and other psychedelics for mental health and personal growth. However, these uses are highly experimental, and limited scientific evidence supports their efficacy.
9. Is 2C-C Addictive?
2C-C is not believed to be physically addictive in the same way that some drugs are, such as opioids or stimulants. However, psychological dependence or developing a habituated use pattern can occur.
10. Are There Any Drug Interactions with 2C-C?
Mixing 2C-C with other substances, including alcohol and prescription medications, can be dangerous. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to assess potential interactions and risks before combining 2C-C with other drugs.
11. Can 2C-C Cause Overdose?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on 2C-C, leading to severe physical and psychological distress. Overdose symptoms may include rapid heart rate, confusion, seizures, and potentially life-threatening conditions. Seeking medical attention immediately is crucial in case of Overdose.
12. Is 2C-C Legal for Research Purposes?
In some countries, 2C-C and other similar compounds may be available for research, but strict regulations often apply. Researchers must obtain the necessary licenses and follow ethical guidelines when working with these substances.
Always exercise caution and responsibility when dealing with 2C-C or other psychoactive substances. This information is for educational purposes only and does not encourage or endorse the use of 2C-C or any illegal drugs.
References
- Shulgin, Alexander; Shulgin, Ann (1991). “#22. 2C-C”. PiHKAL: A Chemical Love Story. United States: Transform Press. ISBN 0963009605. OCLC 1166889264.
- Cheng, A. C.; Castagnoli Jr, N. (1984). “Synthesis and physicochemical and neurotoxicity studies of 1-(4-substituted-2, 5-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-aminoethane analogs of 6-hydroxydopamine”. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. 27 (4): 513–520. doi:10.1021/jm00370a014. eISSN 1520-4804. ISSN 0022-2623. OCLC 39480771. PMID 6423824.
- Armstrong, B. D.; Paik, E.; Chhith, S.; Lelievre, V.; Waschek, J. A.; Howard, S. G. (October 26, 2004). “Potentiation of (DL)‐3, 4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)‐induced toxicity by the serotonin 2A receptior partial agonist d‐lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and the protection of same by the serotonin 2A/2C receptor antagonist MDL 11,939”. Neuroscience Research Communications. 35 (2): 83–95. doi:10.1002/nrc.20023. eISSN 1520-6769.
- Talaie, H.; Panahandeh, R.; Fayaznouri, M. R.; Asadi, Z.; Abdollahi, M. (2009). “Dose-independent occurrence of seizure with tramadol”. Journal of Medical Toxicology. 5 (2): 63–67. doi:10.1007/BF03161089. ISSN 1556-9039.
- “Psychoactive Substances” (PDF). National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre. 2014.[dead link]
- “Bundesrecht konsolidiert: Gesamte Rechtsvorschrift für Neue-Psychoaktive-Substanzen-Verordnung” (in German). June 26, 2019. Retrieved January 10, 2021.
- “RESOLUÇÃO DA DIRETORIA COLEGIADA – RDC N° 130, DE 2 DE DEZEMBRO DE 2016” (in Portuguese). Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) [Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA)]. December 5, 2016.
- “Schedule III”. Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Isomer Design. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
- “关于印发《非药用类麻醉药品和精神药品列管办法》的通知” (in Chinese). 国家食品药品监督管理总局 [China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA)]. September 27, 2015. Archived from the original on September 6, 2017.
- “Gesetz über den Verkehr mit Betäubungsmitteln: Anlage I” (in German). Bundesamt für Justiz [Federal Office of Justice]. Retrieved December 10, 2019.
- “Achtundzwanzigste Verordnung zur Änderung betäubungsmittelrechtlicher Vorschriften” (PDF). Bundesgesetzblatt Jahrgang 2014 Teil I Nr. 57 (in German). Bundesanzeiger Verlag (published December 12, 2014). December 5, 2014. p. 1999-2002. ISSN 0341-1095. OCLC 231871244.
- “Gesetz über den Verkehr mit Betäubungsmitteln: § 29” (in German). Bundesamt für Justiz [Federal Office of Justice]. Retrieved December 10, 2019.
- Uchiyama, N.; Kawamura, M.; Kamakura, H.; Kikura-Hanajiri, R.; Goda, Y. (2008). “Analytical Data of Designated Substances (Shitei-Yakubutsu) Controlled by the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law in Japan, Part I: GC-MS and LC-MS”. Yakugaku Zasshi (in Japanese). 128 (6): 971–979. doi:10.1248/yakushi.128.981. eISSN 0031-6903. ISSN 1347-5231. OCLC 909890652. PMID 18520145.
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