2C-I

AKA

The substance, the experience and the chemical name is 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine

2C-I factoid EU surveys of 15-16 year olds show that up to 5% of this age group have experienced hallucinogenic drugs, compared with 10% in the USA.
(European Council Report on Risk Assessment of 2C-I 2003)

What is it?

2 C-I is a chemical relative of 2CB. It either comes as a white powder or an embossed pill - most common are pills with a little 'i' on them.

2 C-I can be swallowed, snorted or smoked. Like 2CB, it has been sold as ecstasy. But it usually goes for a higher price than other club drugs.

2C-I doses range from 5 - 30mg. As with many drugs, it is impossible to tell how pure or how strong tabs actually are.

How does it make you feel?

A2C-I is a stronger psychedelic than ecstasy and is more speedy than 2CB. It can give you hallucinations, bright colours, lights, trails and firework effects and keep you energised for up to ten hours. All your senses will be heightened.

2C-I doesn't have the same sensual or sexual edge as 2CB.

2C-I is really dose sensitive. If you have dropped it, it can take up to two hours before you feel any effects.

What are the health effects?

2C-I can give you indigestion, wind, stomach upset, nausea, and loose bowels. Not a nice experience when your senses are so finely tuned!

Very little is known about the long-term health effects.

The law

2C-I is an illegal Class A drug. It carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison for possession and a maximum of life for supply.

Buying it over the internet could be construed as 'importation of a Class A drug' - a very serious offence.

Written by Kate Roach

Last updated June 2009

Further help and advice

2C-I entry on Erowid

Disclaimer: The BBC cannot be held responsible for the content of external websites

  Previous article  |  Next article