What is 4fadb-dica
The identification of 4fadb-dica has been described first in 2016. Information obtained from seizures and collections suggests that it has been encountered in powdered form and as a synthetic constituent in herbal plant mixtures most commonly distributed for the purpose of smoking and/or vaping. It is the indole analogue of 5F-ADB (5F-MDMB-PINACA) that is listed in Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971.
Chemistry
There is no specific information available about the routes of synthesis employed for seized 4fadb-dica products circulating on the drug market. Straightforward methods for its preparation exist without requiring access to precursors that are controlled internationally. The presence of an asymmetric carbon atom gives rise to the (R)- and (S)-enantiomer. This seems likely for 4fadb-dica to be most commonly available as the (S)-enantiomer.
General pharmacology of 4fadb-dica
4fadb-dica, in its pure form but mostly as a synthetic constituent added to a plant matrix. It is primarily smoked (or vaped) although reliable data about dosage are unavailable. A small number of in vitro studies are currently available. Data indicate that it binds to and activates human CB1 and CB2 receptors at low nanomolar concentrations. 4fadb-dica acted as a full agonist at both receptor subtypes with significantly higher potency than Δ9 -THC. This has also been observed with other SCRAs that are listed in the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971. Data collected from in vitro metabolism studies and detections in biological specimens revealed that the biotransformation observed included mono-hydroxylation, oxidative defluorination, dehydrogenation, amide, and ester hydrolysis, as well as combinations thereof. Glucuronidation products have also been detected.
Adverse reactions in humans
Detailed information about the clinical features associated with the consumption of 5F-MDMBPICA specifically is not available. However, “mass-overdose” cases were described in Connecticut that have been associated with the detection of 4fadb-dica and other SCRAs and fentanyl. Clinical features reported included decreased mental status, agitated delirium, and seizures. Equally, within a 6-day period in September 2018, 244 overdose cases have been identified in Washington, (USA). That also included the detection of 5F-ADB and other SCRAs. Data collected from intoxication cases with other SCRAs suggest that clinical features. Eventually include, a range of adverse effects on gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular systems.
