Naphyrone
Naphyrone (naphthylpyrovalerone, O-2482) is a pyrrolidine synthetic cathinone in the pyrovalerone family, distinguished by a naphthalene ring in place of the phenyl group. It gained notoriety after the UK mephedrone ban as 'NRG-1'. It is a potent triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor with strong compulsive potential; human data remains limited.
01 Overview
Naphyrone is a fused-ring pyrrolidine cathinone marketed as a legal-grey stimulant, most infamously sold as 'NRG-1' in 2010. Its naphthalene ring makes it a potent, long-acting stimulant, and unusually for the pyrovalerone family it also strongly inhibits serotonin reuptake.
As a potent pyrrolidine cathinone it carries a particularly high risk of compulsive redosing and binge use, alongside cardiovascular strain, comedown and unknown neurotoxicity. Preclinical pharmacology is characterised but human clinical data is minimal; figures are approximate.
02 Mechanism
Potent triple reuptake inhibitor, blocking the dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin transporters with high potency, unlike most pyrovalerones which spare serotonin.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common | 7–20 mg | Insufflated | Very compulsive; long-lasting. |
| Common | 10–30 mg | Oral | Anecdotal; potent, start low. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intense stimulationStrong, long-lasting energy and focus. | Anecdotal | ||
| EuphoriaDopaminergic mood elevation. | Anecdotal | ||
| Appetite suppressionMarked hunger reduction. | Anecdotal |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsive redosingPowerful redosing compulsion typical of the pyrovalerone series. | Severe | Near universal | Anecdotal | |
| Cardiovascular strainSustained tachycardia and hypertension. | Severe | Common | Unconfirmed | |
| Stimulant psychosisParanoia and hallucinations after prolonged binges and sleep loss. | Severe | Uncommon | Unconfirmed |