N-Ethylpentylone is primarily a mixed
norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and
dopamine reuptake inhibitor. It binds to transporters with
IC50 values of 37 nM (
dopamine transporter), 105 nM (
norepinephrine transporter) and 383 nM (
serotonin transporter). The methylenedioxy ring-substitution provides a higher potency at inhibiting serotonin reuptake than its analogue
N-ethylpentedrone.
N-Ethylpentylone is also a low-
potency serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist, with an of 5,200nM. In vivo studies in mice demonstrated that acute intraperitoneal administration of N-ethylpentylone induced an
increase in locomotor activity,
anxiolytic effects but also an
aggressive behaviour as well as social exploration deficits. Repeated exposure to N-ethylpentylone induced hyperthermia, anorexia and rewarding effects. During withdrawal after repeated administration, depression-like symptoms, hyperlocomotion, and a decrease of social exploration were observed. ==Society and culture==