What is MPA?

MPA (Methiopropamine), a new psychoactive substance (NPS), is a stimulant drug, sold on its own or within a range of branded products.

History

MPA was originally discovered in 1942. It is an analogue of methamphetamine (crystal meth). However, its effects are very different. MPA began to be seen in the UK towards the end of 2010.

The law

MPA is controlled under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016

Appearance

MPA is an off-white powder, slightly clumpy in appearance with a bitter taste. It has a recognisable smell described by some as a “slight odour of aniseed”.

How is it sold?

MPA is often sold as one of the ingredients in a wide range of branded products, among them: Ammo, Barry White, Blue Genie, Bomb, Bullet, Charlie Sheen, China White, Dragon, Dusk Till Dawn, Flake Red Eye, Fury, Fury Xtreme, Gogaine, Green Beans, Pink Panthers, Poke, Posh, Purple Bombs, RPM1P, Synthacaine and White MM.

The contents of these branded products can change and it is often unclear which compounds they contain.

Methods of use

MPA is typically sniffed or vaporised (heated and inhaled).

Effects/risks:

MPA is described by many users as being similar to drugs such as caffeine or methylphenidate (Ritalin) and users state that they find it helpful when studying or working late. MPA reportedly induces very little euphoria. Comedown effects are usually described as minimal compared to some other substances, with effects including tiredness, low mood, headaches and irritability.

When MPA is combined with certain other drugs (for example aminoindanes, such as MDAI or 5-iAi) the user is placed at risk of serotonin toxicity. This can be fatal if not dealt with quickly. Symptoms include hyperthermia (overheating), hyperreflexia (over responsive reflexes), clonus (involuntary muscular contractions and relaxations), hypertension (high blood pressure), dysphoria (mental distress) and mydriasis (dilated pupils). Due to muscle tension being triggered by the condition, there is a potential of developing rhabdomyolysis (muscle tissue breakdown) which can cause severe kidney damage and can be fatal. It is therefore dangerous to restrain individuals, as increased agitation will lead to increased muscle tension trying to break free from restraints.

This page was adapted for DrugSearch from a MPA Factsheet which contains more information

Related Links:

Business As Usual : A status report on new psychoactive substances (NPS) and ‘club drugs’ in the (PDF)