4F-Alpha-PHP

The following information was compiled in June 2025 and is subject to change as new research is conducted and as new information becomes available:

Description: 4F-Alpha-PHP is a synthetic stimulant with structural similarity to other known synthetic cathinones (e.g., 4-methyl-PHP, 4F-alpha-PVP, alpha-PHP). 4F-Alpha-PHP was first identified in 2017 and has since been identified in bulk drug seizures and for sale on grey market sites.^1,2 4F-Alpha-PHP was first identified by our laboratory in January 2025 and confirmed after acquiring standard reference material.

Sample Source: Florida 4th District Chief Medical Examiner’s Office (Jacksonville, FL)

Sample Appearance: Blood specimen

Pharmacology: 4F-Alpha-PHP is reported to inhibit neurotransmitter reuptake with high potency at the dopamine transporter (hDAT) and lower potency at the norepinephrine transporter (hNET).³

Toxicology: 4F-Alpha-PHP has been detected in one toxicology case to date at the CFSRE.

Drug Materials: 4F-Alpha-PHP has not been detected in drug materials to date at the CFSRE.

Demographics / Geographics: The toxicology specimen originated from Jacksonville, FL, and 4F-alpha-PHP was found alongside other synthetic cathinones (e.g., alpha-PiHpP, alpha-PiHP, MD-PiHP, and N-isopropyl butylone), traditional stimulants (e.g., cocaine and methamphetamine), and fentanyl.

Legal Status: 4F-Alpha-PHP is not currently a scheduled substance in the United States.

Class:

Stimulant

Appearance:

Blood

Formula:

C16H22FNO

MW:

263.4

[M+]:

263

[M+H]+:

264.1758

IUPAC:

1-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-pyrrolidin-1-yl-hexan-1-one

Report Date:

June 24, 2025