N-Ethylhexedrone

N-Ethylhexedrone (NEH), also known as HEX-EN, is a synthetic cathinone stimulant in the N-ethyl-substituted cathinone group. It is structurally related to hexedrone, but carries an ethyl group rather than a methyl group on the nitrogen. NEH appeared on the illicit drug market in late 2015 and has been detected in clinical and forensic investigations, including fatal intoxications.

Chemistry and history

NEH is a beta-keto amphetamine with an N-ethyl group and an extended alpha-carbon side chain. It is the N-ethyl analogue of hexedrone and belongs to the same structural series as N-ethylpentedrone and N-ethylheptedrone. The WHO reviewed the compound in 2019 and recommended international control because of its stimulant effects and reported fatal and non-fatal intoxications (WHO critical review of N-ethylhexedrone).

Pharmacology

NEH is a potent inhibitor of dopamine and norepinephrine uptake, with much weaker activity at the serotonin transporter. In animal models, it produces psychostimulant and rewarding effects. A structure–activity study found that N-ethyl-substituted cathinones, including NEH, were selective for dopamine uptake inhibition and showed reinforcing properties in mice (Nadal-Gratacós and colleagues, 2023).

These findings are consistent with a stimulant profile that is more dopaminergic than serotonergic. The animal results do not establish a human potency estimate or a predictable subjective response.

Subjective effects

The PsychonautWiki profile of N-ethylhexedrone describes strong stimulation. Anecdotal accounts often mention relatively short-lived desired effects that may prompt repeated use, but do not establish a consistent experience.

Physical effects

Reported effects include stimulation, increased heart rate, sweating, reduced appetite and physical restlessness. Jaw tension, dehydration, nausea and difficulty sleeping are also described. More severe intoxications have involved hyperthermia, cardiovascular strain and acute kidney injury.

Cognitive effects

Users report increased wakefulness, focus and euphoria, but also anxiety, agitation, paranoia and compulsive redosing. Some accounts describe a strong urge to remain active, while others mention confusion and impaired judgement as the effects intensify.

Clinical and forensic findings

A fatal case report described NEH intoxication in a young adult. The patient developed severe hyperthermia, tachycardia and acute kidney injury before death. Other fatal cases have involved NEH together with additional substances, making it difficult to isolate its contribution (Domagalska and colleagues, 2021).

A 2025 observational study examined acute effects and detection in oral fluid and sweat following controlled administration of NEH and related cathinones. It demonstrated that the compounds could be detected in these matrices and provided preliminary human pharmacokinetic information (Núñez-Montero and colleagues, 2025).

Metabolism and toxicity

Metabolic studies have identified N-dealkylation, hydroxylation and reduction pathways for NEH. A 2024 study examined its metabolites alongside those of N-ethylpentedrone and 4-CMC, providing additional markers for forensic detection (Massano and colleagues, 2024).

Clinical and animal findings indicate a risk of severe stimulant toxicity. The WHO review concluded that NEH has dependence and abuse potential and is associated with fatal and non-fatal intoxications. Long-term effects and the risk associated with repeated exposure remain less well characterised.

Related compounds

NEH is related to Hexedrone, N-Ethylpentedrone and Pentedrone. It is the N-ethyl analogue of hexedrone and has a longer alpha-carbon chain than N-ethylpentedrone.