NPAideS: a drug-checking study among 3-methylmethcathinone (3-MMC) users
Théo Willeman1,2, Nathan Grundig3,4, Christine Pochon4
1Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, Pharmacogénétique, Toxicologie, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.
Harm Reduction Journal
|July 28, 2023
Summary
This study analyzed 3-methylmethcathinone (3-MMC) drug samples, finding significant variations in purity and composition. Drug-checking services are recommended for 3-MMC users to mitigate harm.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Chemistry
- Public Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- 3-methylmethcathinone (3-MMC) has seen increased availability and associated harms since 2020.
- Analysis of supposed 3-MMC samples is crucial due to potential composition discrepancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the composition of 3-MMC samples purchased by users.
- To compare the assumed versus the actual composition of the drug.
- To characterize 3-MMC users and their needs for harm reduction.
Main Methods:
- Prospective multicenter study involving 6 community-based organizations in France.
- Anonymized questionnaires assessed consumption patterns in 33 3-MMC users.
- 45 drug powder samples were analyzed using GC-MS and UPLC-MS/MS.
Main Results:
- 3-MMC sample purity varied widely from 21% to 98%.
- Other novel psychoactive substances (NPS), including 4-CEC and 2-FDCK, were detected.
- Users, predominantly male university graduates, sought drug-checking services (86% requested).
Conclusions:
- 3-MMC purity and dosage are highly variable, posing risks to users.
- Drug-checking services are valuable for harm reduction in this population.
- Collaboration between health associations and laboratories is needed to expand drug-checking access.
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