25E-NBOH (2C-E-NBOH)
Forensic and Analytical Overview
1. Chemical Identification
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Common name: 25E-NBOH
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Systematic name: 2-(4-Ethoxy-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-hydroxybenzyl)]ethanamine
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Chemical class: Substituted phenethylamine (NBOH series)
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Molecular formula: C₁₈H₂₃NO₄
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Molecular weight: ≈317.38 g/mol
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Structural relation: The N-hydroxybenzyl analogue of 2C-E; closely related to the NBOMe series (e.g., 25I-NBOMe, 25C-NBOH).
2. Background
25E-NBOH belongs to the NBOH family of phenethylamines, a group of compounds derived from 2C-series hallucinogens.
It first appeared in analytical literature in the early 2010s in connection with forensic casework and toxicological screenings of emerging novel psychoactive substances (NPS).
The compound has no approved medical or therapeutic use and is regulated under controlled substance or analogue laws in many countries.
3. Analytical Characterization
Forensic identification of 25E-NBOH typically employs:
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Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS)
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Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS or LC-QTOF)
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Infrared (IR) spectroscopy for functional group confirmation
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Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) for structural elucidation
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UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy for trace and residue detection
Distinctive fragmentation patterns (including the hydroxybenzyl moiety) aid in differentiation from related NBOMe or 2C-series compounds.
4. Research and Forensic Relevance
25E-NBOH is primarily encountered in:
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Forensic toxicology and seized sample analysis
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Reference material development for analytical laboratories
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Structure–activity comparison with other 2C- and NBOH-type substances
The compound’s identification contributes to the expanding analytical database on substituted phenethylamines within the NPS monitoring field.
5. Legal and Safety Notes
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Regulatory status: Controlled or restricted in most regions under analogue or NPS regulations.
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Intended use: Analytical and forensic reference only — not for human or animal use.
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Safety guidance: Handle only within accredited facilities; use PPE; prevent environmental release.
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Storage: Preserve in sealed containers, protected from light and moisture, at controlled temperatures.
6. Summary
25E-NBOH is a forensically significant substituted phenethylamine belonging to the NBOH class.
Its detection and documentation help support public health and legal authorities in tracking emerging psychoactive substances and refining analytical identification methods.
