25i, also known as 25i-NBOMe, is a powerful synthetic hallucinogenic substance that has emerged as a novel psychoactive substance (NPS) in recreational drug markets. This compound is not intended for human consumption and poses serious health risks, often being misrepresented as other substances.
Understanding 25i-NBOMe
25i-NBOMe is a derivative of the 2C-I phenethylamine family, compounds originally developed for research purposes to map serotonin receptors in the brain. It first appeared in the recreational drug scene around 2010. This substance is known by various street names, including “N-bomb” and “Smiles.”
The substance is commonly found in liquid form, powder, or soaked onto blotter paper, similar to LSD. Administration typically occurs sublingually (under the tongue) or buccally (between the gum and cheek), allowing absorption through the oral mucosa. There are also reports of it being snorted, smoked, or even injected. 25i-NBOMe is extremely potent; even very small doses, sometimes equivalent to a few grains of salt, can produce profound and dangerous effects.
Effects on the Body and Mind
The psychoactive effects of 25i-NBOMe can include intense visual and auditory hallucinations, an altered perception of reality, and feelings of euphoria. Users may also experience confusion, anxiety, paranoia, and distorted thought patterns, which can lead to unpredictable and frightening “bad trips.” The onset of these effects occurs within 30 to 90 minutes after administration.
Physiologically, 25i-NBOMe can induce a rapid heart rate (tachycardia) and elevated blood pressure (hypertension). Other physical manifestations include an increased body temperature (hyperthermia), nausea, and vasoconstriction. The effects of the drug can last for an extended period, ranging from 6 to 10 hours when taken sublingually or buccally, and 4 to 6 hours if snorted, though some users have reported effects lasting up to 12 hours.
Severe Dangers of 25i-NBOMe
A significant danger of 25i-NBOMe is its extremely low therapeutic index, meaning a minute difference exists between a psychoactive dose and a toxic one, making overdose highly likely. This risk is compounded by inconsistent dosing, especially on blotter papers, which can have “hotspots” of unevenly distributed drug. There have been at least 19 known overdose deaths in the United States linked to 25i, predominantly among young adults.
Adverse physical reactions to 25i-NBOMe can be severe, including seizures, kidney failure, and cardiac or respiratory arrest. The substance can also cause serotonin syndrome, a condition where excessive serotonin overwhelms the brain, leading to symptoms such as restlessness, agitation, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, muscle rigidity, and fever, which can be fatal. Psychological risks include acute psychosis, panic attacks, and the potential for lasting mental health issues, with agitation and aggression being commonly reported.
A particularly concerning aspect is the frequent misidentification of 25i-NBOMe as LSD, as it is often sold deceptively. Users who believe they are taking LSD may unknowingly consume a far more potent and dangerous substance, leading to accidental overdoses and complications.
Legal Status
25i-NBOMe is a controlled substance in many countries. In the United States, 25I-NBOMe, along with 25C-NBOMe and 25B-NBOMe, was temporarily placed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) in November 2013, due to public safety concerns. This classification, the most restricted under federal law, signifies that the substance has no approved medical use and a high potential for abuse. The temporary scheduling was later extended, and these compounds are now permanently classified as Schedule I substances, making their production, distribution, and possession illegal.