Alpha-PiHpP

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: Alpha-PiHpP (also known as iso-PV8) is a synthetic stimulant with structural similarity to other known synthetic cathinones (e.g., alpha-PiHP, alpha-PHP). Alpha-PiHpP was first identified in China in late 2024 and reported to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).¹ Alpha-PiHpP 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: The activity and potency of alpha-PiHpP have not been explicitly studied; however, due to structural similarity to other synthetic cathinones such as alpha-PiHP, it is assumed that alpha-PiHpP selectively binds to monoamine transporters to inhibit dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) reuptake.²

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

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

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

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

Class:

Stimulant

Appearance:

Blood

Formula:

C17H25NO

MW:

259.4

[M+]:

259

[M+H]+:

260.2009

IUPAC:

5-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrrolidin-1-yl-hexan-1-one

Report Date:

June 23, 2025