3-MeO-PCP HCL Powder

3-MeO-PCP HCL (3-Methoxyphencyclidine Hydrochloride) powder is a research compound that belongs to the arylcyclohexylamine chemical class. It is structurally and pharmacologically related to phencyclidine (PCP) and ketamine, two well-known compounds in the same family. This product is commonly used in laboratory settings for analytical and scientific purposes due to its dissociative properties and ability to act as an NMDA receptor antagonist.

Molecular Properties and Characteristics

3-MeO-PCP HCL has the following molecular profile:

• Chemical Name: 3-Methoxyphencyclidine Hydrochloride
• Molecular Formula: C18H27NO•HCl
• Molecular Weight: 313.88 g/mol
• IUPAC Name: 1-[1-(3-methoxyphenyl)cyclohexyl]piperidine hydrochloride
• Form: Powder
• Appearance: Fine, crystalline white powder
• Purity: Often synthesized to exceed 99% purity for research purposes

This compound is composed of a piperidine ring bonded to a cyclohexane structure, with a methoxy group (-OCH3) located at the third position of the phenyl ring. The structure contributes to its unique binding affinity and pharmacological properties. The hydrochloride salt form improves its stability and water solubility, making it suitable for in vitro and other controlled experiments.

Mechanism of Action

The primary mechanism of 3-MeO-PCP is inhibition of the NMDA receptor, a type of glutamate receptor vital for synaptic plasticity, memory formation, and cognition. By acting as an antagonist, 3-MeO-PCP blocks the receptor’s ion channel and reduces the ability of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate to propagate signals. This results in the compound’s dissociative effects which are of significant interest to researchers studying neural pathways, neurodegenerative diseases, and receptor dynamics.

Secondary mechanisms may include interactions with dopamine transport systems and other ion channels, although such activity has yet to be fully characterized. Preliminary studies suggest that 3-MeO-PCP’s interaction profile differs slightly from that of other NMDA receptor antagonists, offering unique insights for research.

Applications in Research

3-MeO-PCP HCL powder is primarily utilized by researchers conducting studies on:

1. Neuropharmacology: Examining NMDA receptor activity and its role in neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and chronic pain disorders.
2. Receptor Dynamics: Exploring receptor-ligand interactions to better understand synaptic signaling and neurochemical modulation.
3. Analytical Studies: Testing the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of arylcyclohexylamine derivatives.
4. Behavioral Research: Investigating the behavioral effects of NMDA receptor antagonists to model dissociation or altered perception.

Storage and Handling

To maintain the integrity of 3-MeO-PCP HCL powder, proper storage and handling are required. The powder should be kept in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and heat, ideally at temperatures between 2–8°C. Exposure to adverse environmental conditions may degrade the compound and affect its purity. Only trained professionals in laboratory settings should handle the material, adhering strictly to all safety guidelines.

When working with the compound, researchers are advised to use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and safety goggles. All handling should take place in a dedicated laboratory space equipped with proper ventilation systems like fume hoods to minimize exposure.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

It is imperative to note that 3-MeO-PCP HCL is classified in varying ways depending on the jurisdiction. In some regions, it may be regulated as a controlled substance, limiting its possession and use exclusively to licensed research or laboratory institutions. Researchers must verify the legal status of the compound in their country or state before purchasing, handling, or conducting experiments.

The compound is strictly for analytical and research purposes and is not intended for human or veterinary use. Any misuse or improper handling is subject to legal and ethical penalties, emphasizing the importance of responsible conduct in all research activities.

Limitations and Precautions

The use of 3-MeO-PCP HCL is associated with certain technical and safety limitations. Its dissociative properties require careful monitoring during experimental designs to avoid confounding variables or overexposure. Additionally, data on long-term stability and interaction with various experimental conditions remain limited, necessitating controlled and replicable conditions for meaningful results.

Contamination risks should also be avoided through strict adherence to material handling guidelines, ensuring both safety and the validity of experimental outcomes.

Availability and Packaging

3-MeO-PCP HCL powder is typically sold in small quantities specifically intended for research institutions equipped with the infrastructure to handle and study such compounds. Packaging options generally include sealed, tamper-proof containers that prevent contamination during shipping and ensure the material’s purity.

Researchers interested in purchasing this compound must provide proof of institutional or laboratory credentials to comply with supplier and regulatory standards. Custom packaging or preparation may be available based on the requirements of specific research settings, subject to further validation and documentation.

Synthesis and Quality Control

3-MeO-PCP HCL production involves a multi-step synthesis process that is conducted under stringent laboratory conditions to ensure purity and consistency. Each batch undergoes rigorous quality control checks, including spectroscopic and chromatographic analyses, to verify its specification and eliminate impurities.

Summary

3-MeO-PCP HCL powder is a valuable compound for neuropharmacological research and receptor chemistry studies. Its unique interaction profile as an NMDA receptor antagonist provides significant insights into neurological processes and the potential implications for diseases affecting cognition and perception. Proper usage guidelines, adherence to safety protocols, and awareness of regulatory requirements are essential to responsibly handling this compound.

By maintaining high standards for synthesis, quality control, and ethical research practices, 3-MeO-PCP HCL can serve as an essential tool in advancing scientific knowledge in fields such as neurobiology, pharmacology, and behavioral science.