3-MMC. The “new cocaine” is spreading more and more in certain parties and certain festive circles. While its consumption increases, it is not without risk. A news item in Paris came to remind us.
It is a news item that puts the subject back in the spotlight. Highlighted a few months ago, the “new cocaine”, alias 3-MMC, has been talking about her again in recent days. A man died in Paris on Monday, September 5, after overdosing on the drug, reports The Parisian. The 42-year-old victim began to convulse while having sex and could not be saved. His partner admitted to the police that both had used this cocaine before their antics. Investigators even found remains in the apartment in the 18th arrondissement in which the tragedy took place. But, exactly, what is this “new cocaine”? Are the effects of 3-MMC more dangerous? Here’s what you need to know about it.
What is 3-MMC, the “new cocaine”?
The “new cocaine” is presented by its users as a combination of cocaine, MDMA and amphetamines. But it’s actually not that new. It indeed appeared about ten years ago, in the early 2010s. Initially, it was mainly consumed by men who have sex with other men, explains a document from the French Observatory of Drugs and Addictive Tendencies (OFDT). For about five years, its consumption has been “democratized” during evenings organized by the LGBT community and has spread to all audiences.
What are the effects of 3-MMC?
Having characteristics similar to other drugs, 3-MMC exhibits stimulating, euphoric and empathogenic effects, according to its users. This is how it is widespread in festive circles. According to the OFDT, “the purpose of the product is to remove inhibitions, to increase pleasure.” Laurent Karila, psychiatrist and addictologist, had even added to the Parisian that 3-MMC was taken “to dope and work better.”
What is the difference between 3-MMC and cocaine?
Presenting itself as a derivative of cocaine, 3-MMC differs mainly from one of the best-known drugs by an essential point for consumers: its price. Indeed, the “new cocaine” is sold much cheaper than traditional cocaine. Between 10 and 30 euros per gram against 60 to 80 euros for cocaine. The effects themselves do not seem to be very far between these two drugs.
What are the risks of taking 3-MMC?
As with any drug, taking 3-MMC is not without risk. Amine Benyamania, head of the addiction service at the Paul-Brousse hospital, reports to France info that “the risks of a drug like 3-MMC are cardiovascular and neurological risks. And besides that, psychiatric disorders.” But according to Laurent Karila, “the complications are much worse than those of cocaine. All organs can be affected in the long term”, with risks of kidney problems, ENT, heart attack, cardiac arrest, AVC and therefore convulsions, as recalled by the drama in Paris on September 5.