Acute Effects of the Novel Psychoactive Drug 2C-B on Emotions

A single 20 mg dose of 2C-B in healthy recreational users produced positive subjective effects, including euphoria and well-being, along with reduced anger. However, it increased reactivity to negative emotional stimuli and impaired recognition of happy facial expressions. Speech became more emotional, noticeable to others. Mild increases in blood pressure and heart rate occurred. The authors conclude that 2C-B's emotional profile fits an entactogen with psychedelic properties.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background . 2C-B (Nexus) is one of the most widespread novel psychoactive substances. There is limited information about its pharmacological properties, and few studies in humans concern its acute and chronic effects. 2C-B has been classified as a stimulant, hallucinogen, entactogen, and/or empathogen. Objectives . To evaluate the emotional, subjective, and cardiovascular effects of 2C-B. Methods . Twenty healthy recreational 2C-B users (12 women) self-administered a 20 mg dose of 2C-B. Evaluations included emotional (IAPS, FERT, and speech), subjective (visual analog scales, ARCI, VESSPA, HRS, and POMS questionnaires), and cardiovascular effects (blood pressure and heart rate). Results . Positive subjective effects predominated with a reduction of anger under the influence of 2C-B. It did, however, increase reactivity to negative emotional stimuli and decrease the ability to recognize expressions of happiness. Augmented emotionality in speech could be appreciated by others. 2C-B induced euphoria and well-being, changes in perceptions, and slight hallucinogenic states. Mild sympathetic actions were observed. Conclusions . The specific profile that 2C-B exerts on emotions suggests its classification as an entactogen with psychedelic properties.