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N-ethylpentylone sold as liquid methylphenidate (ritalin)

This was recently purchased from an Australian darknet retailer.

What is N-ethylpentylone?
N-ethylpentylone is a synthetic cathinone stimulant. While methylphenidate and N-ethylpentylone are both stimulants, they are very different substances. N-ethylpentylone can have unpredictable effects. Short lived euphoria creates risk of redosing and mixing with other stimulants which can increase risks significantly.

Risks of N-ethylpentylone include:
– Anxiety, agitation or panic
– Increased heart rate and blood pressure
– Overheating and sweating
– Severe or prolonged insomnia
– Psychotic symptoms (paranoia, hallucinations, or unusual behaviour)
– Serious cardiovascular complications, including heart attack or stroke.

N-ethylpentylone is linked to hospitalisations and overdose deaths. High re-dose compulsion and low active dose mean it is very easy to overdose.

Harm Reduction Tips

Start low, go slow
Use only a small amount to start with. If effects are not as expected, do not re-dose.


Avoid mixing drugs
Risks are increased when mixed with other drugs, particularly other stimulants like MDMA, methamphetamine or cocaine.


Avoid using alone
Be with people you trust who can help you if something goes wrong.

What to do in an emergency

  • Call triple zero ‘000’
  • Keep the person in a calm, low stimulus environment
  • If unconscious, place in the recovery position
  • Stay with the person until help arrives.