The market situation surrounding MDAI, a popular research chemical and designer drug, is characterized by a dynamic interplay between sellers and buyers, predominantly in the online domain. Vendors offer MDAI for sale through various online platforms, catering to a niche market of researchers and enthusiasts seeking novel compounds for exploration.
Online vendors have become pivotal players in the distribution of MDAI, leveraging the relative anonymity of the internet to connect with interested buyers. These vendors often market MDAI as a research chemical, emphasizing its experimental nature and steering clear of overtly promoting recreational use.
Buyers interested in MDAI typically scour the internet for reputable vendors and sources, considering factors like purity, price, and shipping options. The online marketplace offers various choices, allowing buyers to make informed decisions based on their research needs.
Despite its classification as a research chemical, MDAI’s market presence has led to varying scrutiny from regulatory bodies in different regions. Consequently, the availability and legality of MDAI can fluctuate, with some areas implementing restrictions or bans while others permit its sale for research purposes.
Contents
- 1 Summary
- 2 Chemistry
- 3 Pharmacology
- 4 Subjective effects
- 5 Toxicity
- 6 Legal status
- 7 FAQ
- 7.1 1. What is MDAI?
- 7.2 2. What are entactogenic effects?
- 7.3 3. Is MDAI legal?
- 7.4 4. How is MDAI typically consumed?
- 7.5 5. What are the effects of MDAI?
- 7.6 6. Is MDAI safe to use?
- 7.7 7. Can MDAI be addictive?
- 7.8 8. Are there any dangerous interactions with MDAI?
- 7.9 9. What is the recommended dosage of MDAI?
- 7.10 10. Are there any long-term effects associated with MDAI use?
- 8 References
Summary
5,6-Methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane, commonly referred to as MDAI, is a relatively lesser-known entactogen belonging to the aminoindane class. It is recognized for its unique properties as a selective serotonin-releasing agent (SSRA) with minimal impact on dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters.
MDAI was initially developed by the American medicinal chemist and pharmacologist David E. Nichols in the 1990s while at Purdue University. In the 2010s, MDAI gained attention and found its place in the online research chemical market, often alongside other novel entactogens like 5-MAPB, 5-APB, and 6-APB. During this time, it was marketed as a legal, grey-market alternative to MDMA. Moreover, researchers are exploring its potential application as an alternative to conventional entactogens in treating mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
Users of MDAI report a range of subjective effects, including sedation, muscle relaxation, enhanced tactile perception, anxiety alleviation, increased empathy, sociability, and euphoria. It is often likened to producing the non-stimulating effects characteristic of prototypical entactogens like MDMA and MDA. Notably, MDAI is believed to have reduced invigorating, highly prosocial, or intensely euphoric results, potentially offering the advantage of reduced neurotoxicity and fewer side effects. Nevertheless, further research is essential to substantiate these claims.
Given the limited available data regarding MDAI’s pharmacological properties, metabolism, and toxicity, it is strongly recommended that individuals considering its use harm reduction practices be employed.
Identifiers | |
---|---|
IUPAC name | |
CAS Number | 132741-81-2 |
---|---|
PubChem CID | 125558 |
ChemSpider | 111694 |
UNII | 0DMJ6G3XBF |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | DTXSID60157741 |
Chemical and physical data | |
Formula | C10H11NO2 |
Molar mass | 177.203 g·mol− |
Chemistry
MDAI, scientifically known as 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane, is a synthetic compound classified within the aminoindane family and shares structural similarities with amphetamines. In its molecular structure, MDAI possesses the R3 terminal carbon of the amphetamine’s propane chain, which is bonded to a benzene ring. This unique arrangement forms an indane group characterized by the fusion of a benzene ring with a pentane ring. Notably, MDAI incorporates an amino group (NH2) attached to R2 of the indane ring. Additionally, the compound features two oxygen substitutions at R5 and R6, connected via a methylene bridge, thus forming a methylenedioxy group.
MDAI can be likened to its structural relative, 2-AI, with the key distinction being the presence of a methylenedioxy ring within MDAI’s molecular structure.
Pharmacology
MDAI can impede serotonin reuptake and demonstrates a particular affinity for serotonin receptors. Scientific investigations have revealed that animals treated with MDAI experience elevated extracellular levels of monoamine neurotransmitters, notably serotonin, within their brains.
In a comparative context, MDAI’s potency in serotonin release is akin to that of MDA but notably less potent than MDMA. This mechanism involves the inhibition of neurotransmitter reuptake and reabsorption after they have fulfilled their role in transmitting neural impulses. Consequently, this inhibition allows these neurotransmitters to accumulate, be recycled, and induce entactogenic effects.
Subjective effects
Disclaimer: The following effects are based on anecdotal user reports and the insights of PsychonautWiki contributors, as documented in the Subjective Effect Index (SEI). They should be approached with a degree of scepticism. It’s important to note that these effects may only sometimes manifest predictably. Higher doses are more likely to induce a broader range of products, and escalating doses increase the risk of adverse effects, including addiction, severe harm, or even fatality ☠.
Physical :
- Sedation – A distinguishing feature of MDAI is its tendency to induce moderate sedation, discouraging physically active behaviours like running, dancing, or climbing.
- Spontaneous physical sensations – MDAI produces a moderate to extreme euphoric, warm, and tingling sensation that envelops the entire body. This sensation becomes intensely pleasurable at higher doses.
Physical euphoria:
- Tactile enhancement
- Vibrating vision – At higher doses, eyeballs may exhibit spontaneous rapid movements, causing temporary blurriness and a phenomenon known as nystagmus.
- Increased perspiration
- Temperature regulation suppression
- Dehydration – Dry mouth and dehydration are common effects, driven by an elevated heart rate and a strong urge to engage in vigorous physical activities. To avoid over-drinking, it’s advisable to sip water instead.
- Difficulty urinating – Like MDMA, higher doses of MDAI can lead to temporary and harmless difficulty urinating. This is likely due to the anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) release, which regulates urination. Relaxation, warmth application to the genitals, or the sound of running water may alleviate this.
- Temporary erectile dysfunction
Visual:
- Visual effects are subtle and occur primarily at higher doses, including:
- Visual acuity enhancement
- Colour enhancement
- Tracers
Cognitive:
- The cognitive effects intensify with dosage and are characterized by euphoria, love, and empathy. Essential cognitive products include:
- Anxiety suppression
- Cognitive euphoria – Strong emotional happiness stemming from serotonin release.
- Empathy, affection, and sociability enhancement – Not as pronounced as MDMA but still dominant.
- Increased music appreciation
- Immersion enhancement
- Thought deceleration
- Mindfulness
- Time distortion
Auditory:
- Auditory effects may include enhancements and distortions.
After:
- The post-peak phase, often called the “comedown,” is characterized by adverse and uncomfortable effects due to neurotransmitter depletion. Common after-effects include:
- Anxiety
- Cognitive fatigue
- Depression
- Irritability
- Motivation suppression
- Thought deceleration
- Wakefulness
Toxicity
Disclaimer: The information below is based on anecdotal user reports and the collective insights of PsychonautWiki contributors. While valuable, these insights should be approached with caution. Individual reactions may vary, and higher doses carry increased risks, including addiction and severe harm or fatality ☠.
Pharmacology and Toxicity:
- MDAI and related substances have been widely employed in scientific research because they mimic many of MDMA’s effects without causing neurotoxicity. However, there have been no tests specifically addressing cardiovascular toxicity.[2][3][4][5][6][7][8]
- The lethal dose of MDAI in humans remains unknown, and the exact toxic dosage is yet to be determined. Due to its action as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, overdosing may lead to serotonin syndrome.
- Harm reduction practices are strongly advised when using this substance.
Dependence and Abuse Potential:
- While formal studies are lacking, MDAI may have a mild addictive potential with a low likelihood of causing psychological dependence in most users. This is due to its unique mechanism of action that does not significantly increase dopamine levels. Those experiencing addiction may encounter cravings and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.
- Tolerance to MDAI’s effects develops with sustained use, prompting users to administer larger doses for the same results. Afterwards, tolerance reduction takes approximately 3-7 days to reach half and 1-2 weeks to return to baseline (without further consumption).
- MDAI demonstrates cross-tolerance with all entactogens, meaning its use will reduce the effects of other serotonergic stimulants.
Dangerous Interactions:
- Combining psychoactive substances can be perilous, as effects can become life-threatening. Below are some known hazardous interactions. Independent research should always be conducted to ensure safety. Some exchanges are sourced from TripSit:
- 25x-NBOMe & 25x-NBOH – Avoid combining 25x compounds with MDAI due to the risk of excessive stimulation, heart strain, high blood pressure, vasoconstriction, panic attacks, thought loops, seizures, and even heart failure in severe cases.
- Alcohol – Mixing alcohol with stimulants is dangerous because stimulants mask alcohol’s depressant effects. When the motivation wears off, depressant results can take over, leading to blackouts and severe respiratory depression. If combined, strictly limit alcohol intake.
- DXM – Avoid DXM combinations as they inhibit serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, increasing the risk of panic attacks, hypertensive crisis, or serotonin syndrome with serotonin releasers like MDMA, methylone, or mephedrone. Monitor blood pressure and avoid strenuous activity.
- MDMA – Combining stimulants with MDMA may intensify neurotoxic effects, raise blood pressure, and strain the heart (cardiotoxicity).
- MXE – Some reports suggest that MXE combinations may dangerously elevate blood pressure and risk mania and psychosis.
- Dissociatives – Both classes risk delusions, mania, and psychosis, which may be exacerbated when combined.
- Stimulants – Combining MDAI with other stimulants like cocaine can raise heart rate and blood pressure to dangerous levels.
- Tramadol – Tramadol lowers the seizure threshold, and combining it with stimulants may further increase this risk.
- Cocaine – Combining cocaine with MDAI can excessively strain the heart.
Serotonin Syndrome Risk:
- Combinations with certain substances can elevate serotonin levels to dangerous levels, potentially causing a life-threatening serotonin syndrome. These substances include:
- MAOIs – Such as banisteriopsis caapi, Syrian rue, phenelzine, selegiline, and moclobemide.
- Serotonin Releasers include MDMA, 4-FA, methamphetamine, methylone, and αMT.
- SSRIs – Such as citalopram and sertraline.
- SNRIs – Such as tramadol and venlafaxine.
- 5-HTP
Legal status
Austria: The possession, production, and sale of MDAI are prohibited under the Neue-Psychoaktive-Substanzen-Gesetz Österreich (NPSG).
Brazil: MDAI is illegal for possession, production, and sale, according to Portaria SVS/MS nº 344.
China: As of October 2015, China classifies MDAI as a controlled substance.
Denmark: Since September 2015, MDAI is illegal in Denmark.
Germany: MDAI falls under the regulations of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) as of November 26, 2016. Production, import for marketing, administration to others, and trading are punishable offences, while possession is illegal but not penalized.
Japan: As of March 30, 2013, MDAI is considered a controlled substance in Japan.]
Switzerland: MDAI is listed as a controlled substance in Verzeichnis E and has held this status since December 2011.
Turkey: Classified as a drug, MDAI is illegal for possession, production, supply, and import.
United Kingdom: The production, supply, or import of MDAI is prohibited under the Psychoactive Substance Act, effective May 26, 2016.
FAQ
1. What is MDAI?
MDAI, or 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane, is a synthetic substance belonging to the aminoindane class. It shares structural similarities with amphetamines and is known for its entactogenic effects.
2. What are entactogenic effects?
Entactogenic effects refer to the ability of a substance to enhance feelings of empathy, emotional closeness, and sociability, often associated with substances like MDMA (Ecstasy).
3. Is MDAI legal?
The legal status of MDAI varies by country. It is illegal in several nations, while others may regulate it differently. Always check your local laws and regulations regarding MDAI before obtaining or using it.
4. How is MDAI typically consumed?
MDAI is usually taken orally as a powder, capsule, or tablet. Users may swallow it directly or mix it with a beverage. Dosage varies, so it’s crucial to measure accurately.
5. What are the effects of MDAI?
MDAI can induce feelings of sedation, muscle relaxation, tactile enhancement, enhanced empathy, sociability, euphoria, and, at higher doses, subtle visual effects. However, individual experiences may vary.
6. Is MDAI safe to use?
The safety of MDAI is not well-established, as limited scientific research has been conducted. Like many psychoactive substances, it carries risks, mainly when misused or in excessive amounts. Harm reduction practices are strongly advised.
7. Can MDAI be addictive?
While MDAI may have a low potential for abuse and psychological dependence compared to traditional stimulants, it can still be habit-forming for some individuals. Cravings and withdrawal effects may occur with regular use.
8. Are there any dangerous interactions with MDAI?
Yes, there are known dangerous interactions with other substances. Combining MDAI with certain drugs, such as stimulants or MAOIs, can lead to severe health risks, including serotonin syndrome. Always research potential interactions before use.
9. What is the recommended dosage of MDAI?
Dosage can vary widely depending on individual tolerance and body weight. It’s essential to start with a low dose, typically between 50-100 milligrams, and wait to assess its effects before considering additional amounts. Stay within recommended dosages.
10. Are there any long-term effects associated with MDAI use?
Due to the limited research on MDAI, long-term effects are not well-documented. It’s essential to prioritize your safety and use this substance responsibly, considering the potential risks associated with any psychoactive compound.
References
- Johnson, M. P., Conarty, P. F., Nichols, D. E. (July 23, 1991). “Neurochemical Properties of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine and Analogues.” European Journal of Pharmacology. 200 (1): 9–16. doi:10.1016/0014-2999(91)90659-e. ISSN 0014-2999.
- Nichols, D. E., Brewster, W. K., Johnson, M. P., Oberlender, R., Riggs, R. M. (February 1990). “Tetralin and Indan Analogues of MDA.” Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. 33 (2): 703–710. doi:10.1021/jm00164a037. ISSN 0022-2623.
- Nichols, D. E., Johnson, M. P., Oberlender, R. (January 1991). “Nonneurotoxic Analogue of p-Iodoamphetamine.” Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior. 38 (1): 135–139. doi:10.1016/0091-3057(91)90601-w. ISSN 0091-3057.
- Johnson, M. P., Conarty, P. F., Nichols, D. E. (May 1, 1991). “Synthesis and Pharmacological Examination of Novel Compounds.” Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. 34 (5): 1662–1668. doi:10.1021/JM00109A020.
- Johnson, M. P., Huang, X. M., Nichols, D. E. (December 1991). “Serotonin Neurotoxicity in Rats After Combined Treatment with Dopaminergic Agents.” Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior. 40 (4): 915–922. doi:10.1016/0091-3057(91)90106-c. ISSN 0091-3057.
- Nichols, D. E., Marona-Lewicka, D., Huang, X., Johnson, M. P. (1993). “Novel Serotonergic Agents.” Drug Design and Discovery. 9 (3–4): 299–312. ISSN 1055-9612.
- Sprague, J. E., Johnson, M. P., Schmidt, C. J., Nichols, D. E. (October 25, 1996). “Mechanism of p-Chloroamphetamine Neurotoxicity.” Biochemical Pharmacology. 52 (8): 1271–1277. doi:10.1016/0006-2952(96)00482-0. ISSN 0006-2952.
- Cozzi, N. V., Frescas, S., Marona-Lewicka, D., Huang, X., Nichols, D. E. (March 1998). “Indan Analogs of Fenfluramine and Norfenfluramine.” Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior. 59 (3): 709–715. doi:10.1016/s0091-3057(97)00557-1. ISSN 0091-3057.
- Talaie, H.; Panahandeh, R.; Fayaznouri, M. R.; Asadi, Z.; Abdollahi, M. (2009). “Seizure Incidence with Tramadol.” Journal of Medical Toxicology. 5 (2): 63–67. doi:10.1007/BF03161089. eISSN 1937-6995. ISSN 1556-9039.
- Gillman, P. K. (2005). “Interaction of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Opioid Analgesics.” British Journal of Anaesthesia. 95 (4): 434–441. doi:10.1093/bja/aei210 Freely accessible. eISSN 1471-6771. ISSN 0007-0912. PMID 16051647.
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