5F-MDMB-PICA

IUPAC Name

Methyl (2S)-2-{[1-(4-fluorobutyl)-1H-indazole-3-carbonyl]amino}-3,3-dimethylbutanoate

Year(s) and type of review / ECDD meetings
Drug Class
Technical information (most recent pre-review / critical review report)

Recommendation (from TRS)

Substance identification
5F-MDMB-PICA (methyl (2S)-2-{[1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indole-3-carbonyl] amino}-3,3-dimethylbutanoate) is a synthetic cannabinoid also known as 5F-MDMB-2201. It has been detected in plant material intended for smoking and as a powder.

WHO review history
5F-MDMB-PICA has not been reviewed previously. A critical review was proposed on the basis of information brought to WHO’s attention that 5F-MDMB-PICA is manufactured clandestinely, poses a risk to public health and society and is of no therapeutic use recognized by any Party.

Similarity to known substances and effects on the central nervous system
5F-MDMB-PICA is a full agonist at CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. It is an analogue of 5F-MDMB-PINACA, which is listed in Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971.

Adverse effects in humans have included impaired mental status, agitated delirium and seizures; these effects are also produced by other synthetic cannabinoids.

Dependence potential
No controlled experimental studies of the dependence potential of 5F-MDMB- PICA have been published. In view of its action on the central nervous system as a CB1 receptor agonist, however, it is expected to produce dependence in a manner similar to other synthetic cannabinoids.

No information was available on the abuse potential of 5F-MDMB-PICA in animal or human models.

5F-MDMB-PICA has been identified in seized and collected material and has been detected in attempted smuggling into prisons. In some countries, it is one of the most frequently detected synthetic cannabinoids.

Cases of apparent mass overdose reported in one country were associated with use of 5F-MDMB-PICA with other synthetic cannabinoids and fentanyl. 5F-MDMB-PICA use has been linked to at least one death.

Therapeutic usefulness
5F-MDMB-PICA is not known to have any therapeutic uses.

Recommendation
5F-MDMB-PICA is a synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist that is administered by smoking plant material sprayed with the substance or inhaling vapour after heating. Its pharmacological mechanism of action suggests the likelihood of dependence and abuse and ill effects similar to those of other synthetic cannabinoids. Its use has been associated with substantial harm. Its effects are similar to those of other synthetic cannabinoids that are placed in Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971. 5F-MDMB-PICA has no therapeutic use.

■ Recommendation: The Committee recommended that 5F-MDMB-PICA methyl (2S)-2-{[1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indole-3- carbonyl]amino}-3,3-dimethylbutanoate be added to Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971.

ECDD Recommendation

Inclusion in Schedule II of the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances