Template:Chembox new MDEA (also MDE), which stands for 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-ethylamphetamine, is a psychedelic hallucinogenic drug and empathogen-entactogen of the phenethylamine family. It is chemically very similar to methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), the active chemical in the drug “ecstasy”. MDEA differs from MDMA in that it has one more carbon atom, and two more hydrogen atoms in the substituent on the nitrogen atom. The difference is evidenced in its name by the “ethyl” prefix, rather than the “methyl” prefix designating a single-carbon chain (see Alkanes). MDEA is sometimes sold as a substitute for ecstasy on the black market. It can be prepared by reductive amination of MDP2P.

MDEA works by releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood and perception. It requires a slightly larger dose (100–200 mg.) than MDMA with major effects lasting typically between three and five hours.^[1] The subjective effects of MDEA are similar to MDMA. The euphoric “loved up” feelings associated with MDMA use are not as pronounced. The effects are also not as stimulating as MDMA, MDEA has somewhat of a stoning effect and may be responsible for rumors of heroin-laced ecstasy pills. However, MDEA does have a mildly hallucinogenic effect. This, coupled with an increase in the user’s energy levels (similar to amphetamine use) had led some users to conclude that MDEA is more suitable as a nightclub drug.