4-Methylmethylphenidate

The following information was compiled in June 2023 and is subject to change as new research is conducted and as new information becomes available:

Description: 4-Methylmethylphenidate is a novel synthetic stimulant which is structurally similar to methylphenidate and other “phenidate” analogues. In October 2022, 4-methylmethylphenidate was detected by our laboratory for the first time in the United States; however, the drug has emerged in other countries around the world previously.

Sample Source: Office of the Coroner, Lorain County (Ohio, USA).

Sample Appearance: Toxicology specimens – blood, urine, and vitreous fluid.

Pharmacology: Pharmacological studies involving 4-methylmethylphenidate have been published in the literature. Data indicate that 4-methylmethylphenidate is slightly less potent than methylphenidate. Based on structural similarity, 4-methylmethylphenidate is expected to exhibit similar adverse effects to other “phenidate” analogues, including tachycardia, hypertension, irritability, paranoia, and anxiety.

Toxicology: 4-Methylmethylphenidate has been detected in one toxicology case at the CFSRE.

Drug Materials: 4-Methylmethylphenidate has not been identified in drug materials at the CFSRE.

Demographics / Geographics: The toxicology case originated from the state of Ohio.

Legal Status: 4-Methylmethylphenidate is not explicitly scheduled in the United States.

Class:

Stimulant

Appearance:

Blood

Formula:

C15H21NO2

MW:

247.33

[M+]:

247

[M+H]+:

248.1645

IUPAC:

methyl 2-(2-piperidyl)-2-(p-tolyl)acetate

Report Date:

June 20, 2023