Cansford Laboratories has expanded its New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) testing capabilities by announcing the addition of three synthetic cathinones: 3-CMC, 4-CMC, and 3-MMC this week (4th February 2025). These substances are now included in our NPS testing group.
As drug usage trends evolve quickly, it is essential for our NPS panel to stay up to date. The inclusion of these new analytes is just the first step in an ongoing process of refinement, with more substances set to be added and others scheduled for removal.
Synthetic cathinones, often referred to as “bath salts” or “legal highs,” are chemically similar to cathinone, a stimulant found in the khat plant. They are designed to mimic the effects of drugs like MDMA and amphetamines, producing stimulant effects such as euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness. However, these substances also carry significant risks, including agitation, paranoia, cardiovascular issues, and, in some cases, severe toxicity.
The three newly added substances are:
3-CMC (3-Chloromethcathinone) – A stimulant with effects similar to MDMA, known to cause increased sociability but also linked to adverse psychological effects.
4-CMC (4-Chloromethcathinone) – Also known as Clephedrone, this drug has been associated with stimulant effects but carries a high potential for abuse and toxicity.
3-MMC (3-Methylmethcathinone) – A structural analogue of mephedrone, 3-MMC has been used as a replacement for banned cathinones and has been linked to serious health risks.
These substances have been identified in casework across the UK, highlighting the need for advanced testing capabilities. By incorporating 3-CMC, 4-CMC, and 3-MMC into our NPS panel, Cansford Laboratories continues to lead the way in drug and alcohol testing, providing accurate and timely results to support legal, workplace, and safeguarding professionals.
Kim Bagley, Managing Director at Cansford Laboratories, said: “As synthetic drugs continue to evolve, it is essential that our testing capabilities keep pace. The addition of these synthetic cathinones to our NPS panel ensures that our clients have access to the most up-to-date and reliable testing available.”
For more information about our expanded NPS testing services, call 029 2054 0567 or contact us at info@cansfordlabs.co.uk.
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