Chemical compositions

1. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine.MDMA

Molecular formula: C₁₁H₁₅NO₂ Class: synthetic psychoactive stimulant and empathogen Structure includes: a benzene ring a methylenedioxy group (–O–CH₂–O–) an amine group

It primarily increases serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain.

2. DL‑Phenylalanine

Molecular formula: C₉H₁₁NO₂ Class: amino acid It is a mixture of: L-phenylalanine (used by the body to build proteins) D-phenylalanine

The body converts phenylalanine into tyrosine, which then helps produce neurotransmitters like dopamine.

How scientists normally create new medicines

Pharmaceutical researchers don’t usually mix two full molecules together. Instead they:

Modify a molecule slightly (change atoms or functional groups). Test the new compound in labs and animals. Study toxicity, metabolism, and effectiveness. Run clinical trials.

This process can take 10–15 years before a drug is approved.