4-HO-MET

4-HO-MET: Tryptamine Research Chemical Profile and Uses

4-HO-MET (4-Hydroxy-N-methyl-N-ethyltryptamine) is a synthetic tryptamine compound widely studied in neuropharmacology, analytical chemistry, and forensic research. It is part of the 4-hydroxy tryptamine family, which includes compounds structurally similar to psilocin, the active metabolite of psilocybin.

Due to its structural features, 4-HO-MET is frequently examined for its interaction with serotonin (5-HT) receptors, especially 5-HT2A and 5-HT1A, making it relevant in receptor binding assays and pharmacological modeling.

Chemical and Structural Overview

  • Full Name: 4-Hydroxy-N-methyl-N-ethyltryptamine

  • Molecular Formula: C13H18N2O

  • IUPAC Name: 3-[2-(ethyl(methyl)amino)ethyl]-1H-indol-4-ol

  • Chemical Class: Tryptamine / Indolealkylamine

  • Common Form: Fumarate or freebase powder

  • Structural Family: Analog of psilocin and 4-HO-DMT

The presence of a hydroxy group at the 4-position on the indole ring makes 4-HO-MET structurally and functionally close to naturally occurring compounds like psilocin and serotonin.

Research and Analytical Applications

4-HO-MET is used for scientific research only, and is particularly valuable in studies involving:

  • Serotonergic receptor activity mapping

  • Comparative pharmacology between synthetic and natural tryptamines

  • Forensic toxicology screening methods

  • Structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis

  • In vitro binding studies in neuroscience research

Its synthetic nature allows for precise manipulation in controlled research settings, contributing to a deeper understanding of psychoactive tryptamines and their receptor mechanisms.

Observed Characteristics in Lab Studies

Although not approved for human use, studies using in vitro and theoretical models suggest:

  • Affinity for 5-HT2A receptors, a key target in psychedelic pharmacology

  • Effects and behavior consistent with other 4-hydroxy tryptamines

  • Moderate lipophilicity and metabolic variability

  • High potential as a reference standard in chemical assays

All conclusions must be drawn under controlled conditions with the appropriate regulatory permissions.

Legal Status of 4-HO-MET

4-HO-MET is not scheduled under international drug conventions, but may be restricted as a structural analog of other controlled substances.

  • United States: Unscheduled federally, but may fall under the Federal Analog Act

  • United Kingdom: Controlled under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016

  • Germany: Potentially covered under NpSG (New Psychoactive Substances Act)

  • Canada, Australia, EU: Status varies; always check local regulations

Researchers are responsible for ensuring all legal requirements are met prior to purchase or handling.

Laboratory Handling and Safety

4-HO-MET is not for human consumption. It must be handled by qualified professionals in compliance with all laboratory safety standards.

Best practices include:

  • Use of appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection, lab coats)

  • Secure, clearly labeled chemical storage

  • Measurement using precision microgram balances

  • Documentation of all handling and disposal protocols

  • Research-grade ventilation and containment environments

For Research Use Only

4-HO-MET is strictly intended for research, analytical, and forensic applications. It is not approved for clinical, therapeutic, or dietary use.

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