beta-Methylphenethylamine (BMPEA)
beta-Methylphenethylamine (BMPEA) is a synthetic amphetamine isomer that was found in supplements labelled as Acacia rigidula. It has never been tested for safety in humans, and the FDA warned manufacturers after independent analyses identified it in numerous products.
01 Overview
BMPEA is a positional isomer of amphetamine synthesised in the 1930s but never developed as a drug. In 2014-2015, researchers reported it in many supplements marketed with 'Acacia rigidula', where it was almost certainly added synthetically rather than sourced from the plant.
The FDA subsequently issued warning letters. Because BMPEA is an amphetamine analog with no human safety data, its use in supplements is considered a serious concern, with cardiovascular risk expected from the class.
02 Mechanism
Amphetamine isomer acting as an indirect sympathomimetic that releases noradrenaline and dopamine.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Found in products | 20–90 mg | Oral | Per-serving amounts detected in supplements; no safe dose established. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amphetamine-like stimulationExpected stimulant energy from the amphetamine-isomer structure. | Unclear in humans | Preclinical |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anxiety and agitationOverstimulation typical of amphetamine-class amines. | Moderate | Unquantified | Preclinical | |
| Cardiovascular stimulationRaised heart rate and blood pressure expected from an amphetamine isomer. | Severe | Unquantified | Preclinical |