What is 3-MMC?

3-MMC belongs to the group of stimulant drugs. This means that people who use 3-MMC often feel more energetic. The effects are comparable to a mix of MDMA and cocaine. Users mainly feel:

• Alert
• Happy and euphoric
• Not tired

People under the influence of 3-MMC often feel the need to socialize. They may also experience increased self-confidence and, occasionally, a heightened sex drive. Physical effects of 3-MMC include: increased blood pressure, raised body temperature, stimulation and muscle tension, sweating, dry mouth, dilated pupils, and teeth grinding. When snorted, the effects of 3-MMC last about 2 to 4 hours. If taken in pill or capsule form, the effects can last 4 to 6 hours.

3-MMC is most commonly snorted, but it can also be swallowed, usually in the form of a pill, capsule, or “bomb.” Rarely, users inject it—a method referred to as slamming.

As with other new substances, little is known about the risks associated with 3-MMC. It’s a relatively new drug with very limited research on short-term risks and none on long-term effects. What is clear is that high doses and mixing with other substances or alcohol significantly increase the risks and negative effects. In essence, users of 3-MMC are acting as test subjects. More and more people report a strong craving to use 3-MMC again. Below is a list of side effects reported by users:

• Dilated pupils
• Dry mouth
• Restlessness
• Hallucinations
• Heart palpitations
• Nausea and headaches

After using 3-MMC, people may feel off for a few days. They often feel sad or down—this is sometimes referred to as the “Tuesday dip.” A 3-MMC hangover typically includes the following symptoms:

• Feeling depressed
• Lack of motivation
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Anxiety or restlessness

The more 3-MMC you use, the worse the hangover can be.

3-MMC produces euphoric feelings and boosts libido. As a result, addiction can develop quickly. After just a few uses, you may become not only psychologically but also physically dependent. Quitting 3-MMC use carries significant risks. Withdrawal without proper medical support can lead to dangerous symptoms. Users report experiencing sore throats, stomach pain, sleep problems, physical and mental exhaustion, headaches, and anxiety or panic attacks. Irritability, lack of motivation, and aggression are also common.

Since April 2024, 3-MMC has been listed under List I of the Dutch Opium Act. This means possession, production, and sale of 3-MMC are illegal. It is officially classified as a hard drug. Previously, in October 2021, 3-MMC had been placed on List II of the Opium Act. Some people assume that producers of these substances will quickly make minor changes to the chemical structure to bypass the law after a ban. This is not always the case. Alternatives are often already available but have not gained popularity—typically due to less desirable effects or more side effects. After 3-MMC was banned, sellers started promoting an alternative called 3-CMC. However, even less is known about the effects and risks of 3-CMC.