Dimethocaine (Larocaine)
Dimethocaine (larocaine) is a synthetic local anaesthetic structurally related to cocaine that also inhibits the dopamine transporter, producing cocaine-like stimulant and reinforcing effects. It has been sold as a legal-high cocaine substitute, with limited human data and cocaine-like abuse and cardiovascular risk.
01 Overview
Dimethocaine was developed as a local anaesthetic in the early 20th century and shares cocaine's aminobenzoate structure. It re-emerged as a research-chemical stimulant marketed as a cocaine alternative, often as an adulterant or standalone powder.
Human recreational data is limited to anecdote and case reports, though older anaesthetic literature exists. Animal studies confirm cocaine-like dopamine reuptake inhibition and reinforcing properties, supporting real abuse potential and cardiovascular risk.
02 Mechanism
Dopamine reuptake inhibitor with local-anaesthetic (sodium-channel blocking) activity; a cocaine-like aminobenzoate ester.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common (approximate, anecdotal) | 30–100 mg | Insufflated | Cocaine-like short duration; user-reported. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cocaine-like stimulationEuphoria, energy and confidence, plus local numbing. | Moderate | Anecdotal | |
| Local anaesthesiaNumbing at site of application, consistent with its anaesthetic origin. | Moderate | Preclinical |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsive redosingShort duration drives repeated use and dependence. | Moderate | Common | Anecdotal | |
| Cardiovascular toxicityTachycardia, hypertension and arrhythmia risk as with cocaine-like agents. | Severe | Common with heavy use | Anecdotal |