Benzofuran

Benzofuran Compounds: Research Chemical Category and Scientific Overview

Benzofuran is a heterocyclic organic compound that serves as the core structure for a wide class of synthetic research chemicals, particularly in the stimulant, empathogen, and entactogen categories. Many designer substances in the phenethylamine and cathinone families feature the benzofuran ring system, which is known to modulate serotonergic, dopaminergic, and noradrenergic pathways.

Well-known benzofuran-based compounds include:

• 5-APB (5-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran)

• 6-APB (6-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran)

• 5-MAPB, 6-MAPB

• 5-EAPB, Benzofuranyl analogs of MDMA

These compounds are often explored in the context of psychedelic and empathogenic pharmacology, and may show similarities to MDMA in in vitro binding studies. Due to their psychoactive potential, they are typically studied in academic, toxicological, and forensic laboratories.

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Chemical Structure and Classification

• Core Structure: A fused benzene and furan ring

• Molecular Formula (base compound): C8H6O

• Chemical Class: Heterocycles / Phenethylamines (when substituted)

• Appearance: Varies; often found in crystalline or powder form

• Applications:

  • Structure–activity relationship (SAR) research

  • Forensic toxicology analysis

  • Neurochemical profiling

  • Drug metabolism modeling

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Research Significance

Benzofuran analogs are structurally distinct from typical phenethylamines and amphetamines, often exhibiting:

• Serotonin reuptake inhibition (SRI)

• Monoamine releasing activity (SRA)

• Binding affinity for 5-HT2A and other serotonin receptors

• Altered duration and intensity compared to MDMA analogs

Some benzofuran compounds also act as entactogens, meaning they may produce pro-social or emotional enhancement effects in test subjects (not for human use).

Due to these properties, benzofurans are studied for their potential in:

• Neurotransmitter transport studies

• Comparison with amphetamine analogs

• Psychoactive compound metabolism

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Safety and Handling in Laboratory Settings

Benzofuran-based research chemicals are active in low to moderate doses and should be handled only by trained personnel.

Best safety practices include:

• Use of gloves and eye protection

• Accurate microgram-to-milligram scale measurements

• Labeling and sealed storage in dark, cool environments

• Waste disposal in accordance with chemical safety protocols

• Restricted lab access with proper documentation

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Legal Status of Benzofuran Compounds

The legal classification of benzofurans varies significantly depending on specific substitutions and regional drug policies. While benzofuran itself is not scheduled, its derivatives often are.

• United States: Some benzofurans are considered analogs under the Federal Analog Act

• United Kingdom: Most benzofurans are Class B under the Misuse of Drugs Act

• Germany: Many are restricted under the NpSG

• European Union: Varies by country; often under new psychoactive substance regulations

• Canada / Australia: Controlled if considered MDMA analogs

Researchers must ensure compliance with local and international regulations before acquiring or using benzofuran-related compounds.

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For Research Use Only

Benzofuran and its analogs are not approved for human or veterinary use. All products and materials are intended exclusively for scientific, forensic, and laboratory research purposes.