Piperonyl methyl ketone serves as a foundational component or transitional stage in the creation of methylenedioxy phenethylamines and amphetamines, such as 3,4-MDMA. It may exist as an unintended inclusion within formulations of methylenedioxy phenethylamines. The precise physiological and toxicological characteristics of this compound remain undisclosed.
This piece provides an extensive examination of MDP2P, encompassing its basic details, physico-chemical attributes, Chemical Reactions of MDP2P, legal standing, synthesis of MDP2P, concluding remarks, and bibliography.
The substance is unstable at room temperature and should be stored in a freezer.
MDP2P Structural Formula
MDP2P Liquid
Chemical Information of MDP2P
MDP2P (3,4-methylenedioxy-phenyl-2-propanone) is a unique chemical compound composed of phenylacetone with a methylenedioxy functional group substitution. It serves as a vital chemical precursor for MDMA (commonly referred to as “Ecstasy”), MDEA, and other related substances. Notably, it is currently listed on the watch list of the DEA.
Transparent liquids or crystalline substances, aromatic aldehydes, and ketones often possess the distinct aroma of bitter almonds and flowers. Their spectral characteristics bear resemblance to unsaturated carbonyl compounds, while chemically they share similarities with saturated aliphatic compounds. Aromatic compounds, influenced by the aromatic ring, exhibit lower reactivity compared to aliphatic compounds. Their reactions primarily occur through the benzene ring.
Aromatic aldehydes and ketones possess toxic properties and demonstrate irritant and localized effects. They can permeate the skin, especially in the case of unsaturated aliphatic compounds. Certain substances within this category have carcinogenic and mutagenic effects. Halogen derivatives of ketones induce severe irritation of mucous membranes and cause burns upon skin contact. Alicyclic ketones display narcotic effects.
Ketones play a crucial role in the metabolic processes of living organisms. For instance, ubiquinone participates in oxidative-reductive reactions within tissue respiration. Compounds containing the ketone functional group include essential monosaccharides (such as fructose), terpenes (menthone, carvone), components of essential oils (such as camphor and jasmine), natural dyes (indigo, alizarin, flavonoids), steroid hormones (cortisone, progesterone), musk (muskone), and the antibiotic tetracycline.
The presence of an excessive amount of ketones in an individual’s urine and blood indicates ketosis or ketoacidosis, which may be associated with abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism or related pathological processes.
Synthesis of 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)propan-2-one (MDP2P, PMK)
It is synthesized from safrole or its isomer isosafrole by oxidation using the Wacker process or by oxidation with peroxycarboxylic acids.
The Wacker process is used for the synthesis of MDP2P
There is a synthetic method of producing MDP2P (6) from catechol via Safrole, the reaction pathways shown in scheme below. The synthesis of Safrole is represented by a reaction with two different conditions and slightly different yields. The synthesis of MDP2P from safrole was performed via the two most common methods used in clandestine laboratories – Wacker oxidation of safrole (Route 1) with 78% yield (of this reaction) and the isomerisation of safrole and peracid oxidation and acid dehydration of isosafrole (Route 2) with 57% yield (of both route 2 reactions).
MDP2P (PMK) total synthesis via Safrole from Catechol
3,4-MDP2P can also be synthesized from heliotropin (also known as piperonal or 3,4-methylenedioxybenzaldehyde) – initially, condensation is carried out with nitroethane, followed by the reduction of the resulting nitropropene to the ketone.
Synthesis scheme of MDP2P from piperonal
Legal Status MDP2P in the United States is classified as List I, a precursor substance. List I designates substances that have a high potential for being used in the illegal production of drugs. MDP2P, also known as 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl-2-propanone, is closely regulated and monitored due to its significant role in the synthesis of illicit drugs such as MDMA (ecstasy) and methamphetamine. Its inclusion in List I signifies the recognition of its potential for misuse and the need to control its availability to prevent illicit drug manufacturing.At the international level, the United Nations categorizes MDP2P under Precursors Table I. This classification system is used to identify substances that can be employed in the illicit production of drugs. By categorizing MDP2P in Precursors Table I, the UN acknowledges its significance as a precursor in the global context and emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in monitoring and controlling its distribution.In the European Union, MDP2P falls under Category 1 Precursor. This designation highlights the EU’s commitment to regulating substances with a high potential for misuse in drug manufacturing. By classifying MDP2P as a Category 1 Precursor, the EU aims to prevent the diversion of this substance towards illicit drug production within its member states and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Conclusion
MDP2P (3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl-2-propanone) is a precursor substance that plays a significant role in the illicit production of drugs such as MDMA (ecstasy) and methamphetamine. It is synthesized from safrole or its isomer isosafrole through processes like the Wacker oxidation or oxidation with peroxycarboxylic acids. MDP2P can also be synthesized from piperonal (3,4-methylenedioxybenzaldehyde) through condensation with nitroethane followed by reduction. The regulation and control of MDP2P, categorized as List I in the United States, Precursors Table I by the United Nations, and Category 1 Precursor in the European Union, are crucial for preventing its diversion into the illegal drug trade and ensuring public safety.
