Skip to content

    Research Use Only

    This site is an independent educational resource for research compounds. We do not sell, distribute, or endorse human consumption of any compound. By entering, you confirm you are 21 years of age or older and agree to our Terms & Privacy Policy.

    🔬 100K+ researchers trust BodyHackGuide — Join r/BodyHackGuide
    9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline) molecular structure

    9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline)

    NootropicsPreclinical

    9-Methyl-β-carboline (9-MBC) is a synthetic β-carboline alkaloid that has gained significant interest in the nootropic community for its reported ability to promote dopaminergic neuron growth, increase dopamine synthesis enzymes, and provide neuroprotective effects against neurotoxins. It is one of the few compounds with preclinical evidence for actual dopaminergic neurogenesis rather than just release or reuptake modulation..

    CAS: 2521-07-56 PubMed Studies
    Last reviewed:
    6
    PubMed Studies
    Nootropics
    Category
    Preclinical
    Research Stage

    Overview

    At A Glance

    Mechanism

    A dopaminergic and serotonergic compound that acts as both a beta-carboline alkaloid and a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. It enhances dopamine transporter expression and increases dopamine levels while also promoting neurogenesis and UV-stimulated melanogenesis.

    Dose Range
    5 mg - 30 mg daily (oral/sublingual)mcg
    Potential Benefits
    Enhanced dopamine levelsIncreased motivation and driveNeurogenesis promotionImproved focus and energy
    Safety Notes
    Common
    Light sensitivity (photosensitizer — avoid direct sun exposure for hours after dosing)Overstimulation at high dosesInsomnia if dosed late

    Overview

    9-Methyl-β-carboline (9-MBC) is a synthetic β-carboline alkaloid that has gained significant interest in the nootropic community for its reported ability to promote dopaminergic neuron growth, increase dopamine synthesis enzymes, and provide neuroprotective effects against neurotoxins. It is one of the few compounds with preclinical evidence for actual dopaminergic neurogenesis rather than just release or reuptake modulation.

    Potential Research Fields

    Parkinson's diseaseDopaminergic neurodegenerationDepressionCognitive enhancement

    Chemical Information

    IUPAC Name

    9-methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole

    CAS Number

    2521-07-5

    Molecular Formula

    C12H10N2

    Molecular Mass

    182.22 g/mol

    Dosing & Protocols

    Unlock Dosing Protocols

    Free account gets you:

    • View beginner, intermediate & advanced protocols
    • See weight-based dosing calculations
    • Access cycle length & frequency data

    2,800+ researchers already in

    Research

    Unlock Research Data

    Free account gets you:

    • Browse PubMed study summaries
    • See clinical trial phases & results
    • Access mechanism of action details

    2,800+ researchers already in

    Interactions

    Interaction Matrix

    Contraindications

    Concurrent UV/sun exposure (phototoxic — can cause DNA damage). SSRI/MAOI use. Liver disease. History of melanoma. Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

    Research Disclaimer

    This interaction data is compiled from published research and community reports. It may not be exhaustive. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining compounds.

    No listings found for 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline).

    Get 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline) Price Drop Alerts

    Set a target price and we'll notify you when any vendor drops below it.

    Sign in to leave a review

    Reviews on BodyHackGuide are tied to verified user accounts and moderated before publishing. Sign in (free, no spam) to share your experience with 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline).

    Related Compounds

    View All

    Bromantane

    NootropicsRussia Approved

    Bromantane is an atypical psychostimulant and anxiolytic developed in the 1980s at the Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, originally created as an adaptogen for Soviet military and elite athletic use and later approved in Russia for the treatment of neurasthenic and asthenic disorders under the trade name Ladasten.

    34 studiesView Profile

    Dihexa

    NootropicsPreclinical

    Dihexa is a synthetic peptide analogue of the angiotensin IV metabolite LVV-hemorphin-7, developed at Washington State University.

    t½ Unknown in humans (animal studies suggest rapid metabolism with sustained CNS effects) 10–40 mg oral or intranasal per day
    1 studiesView Profile

    Kavain

    NootropicsPreclinical

    Active compound from kava for relaxation and sleep support..

    PreclinicalView Profile

    L-Theanine

    NootropicsFDA Approved

    L-Theanine is a non-proteinogenic amino acid found almost exclusively in tea (Camellia sinensis) and a handful of edible mushrooms, and it has become the single most widely-used calm-focus nootropic in the modern supplement market — both on its own at 100-400mg doses and, even more prominently, as the classic 1:1 or 2:1 pair with caffeine that defines the "calm-focus" experiential signature of green tea and of virtually every serious nootropic stack.

    t½ 1-3 hours (plasma); central CNS effect 3-5 hours
    1226 studiesView Profile

    L-Tyrosine

    NootropicsPreclinical

    L-Tyrosine is a non-essential aromatic amino acid and the direct biosynthetic precursor to the catecholamine neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.

    8 studiesView Profile

    Lion's Mane Mushroom

    NootropicsPhase 2

    Lion's Mane (scientific name Hericium erinaceus; also known as yamabushitake in Japanese, houtou in Chinese, bearded tooth fungus, monkey head mushroom, and pom pom mushroom) is a white-to-cream coloured edible and medicinal mushroom in the tooth fungus family (Hericiaceae), characterised by its distinctive cascading spines that resemble a lion's mane or white cascading icicles.

    554 studiesView Profile

    View Full Dosage Guide →

    Protocols, calculator & safety for 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline)

    Research Score

    61

    6 PubMed studies

    Quality Indicators

    Data Completeness

    88%
    Description
    Mechanism of Action
    Chemical Data
    Dosing Protocols
    Safety Profile
    PubMed Studies
    Interactions
    Vendor Listings

    Research Credibility

    6PubMed studies

    Limited research available

    Quick Facts

    Molecular Weight

    182.22 g/mol

    CAS Number

    2521-07-5

    Trial Phase

    Preclinical

    Safety Profile

    Moderate Risk

    Common Side Effects

    • Light sensitivity (photosensitizer — avoid direct sun exposure for hours after dosing)
    • Overstimulation at high doses
    • Insomnia if dosed late

    Stop Use If

    • CRITICAL: Do NOT combine with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, MDMA, or serotonergic substances — serotonin syndrome risk
    • Avoid tyramine-rich foods while using (MAO inhibition)
    • Avoid UV/sunlight exposure on dosing days — phototoxicity risk

    Research Disclaimer

    This information is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline) used for in research?

    9-Methyl-β-carboline (9-MBC) is a synthetic β-carboline alkaloid that has gained significant interest in the nootropic community for its reported ability to promote dopaminergic neuron growth, increase dopamine synthesis enzymes, and provide neuroprotective effects against neurotoxins. It is one of the few compounds with preclinical evidence for actual dopaminergic neurogenesis rather than just release or reuptake modulation.

    What forms does 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline) come in?

    9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline) is available in vials, capsules, and sprays forms.

    How much does 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline) cost?

    Pricing varies by vendor and form.

    How do I compare 9-MBC (9-Methyl-β-carboline) vendors?

    Compare prices, payment methods, shipping, and COA scores across 0 vendors.

    Research Tools

    Related Compounds

    View All

    Bromantane

    NootropicsRussia Approved

    Bromantane is an atypical psychostimulant and anxiolytic developed in the 1980s at the Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, originally created as an adaptogen for Soviet military and elite athletic use and later approved in Russia for the treatment of neurasthenic and asthenic disorders under the trade name Ladasten.

    34 studiesView Profile

    Dihexa

    NootropicsPreclinical

    Dihexa is a synthetic peptide analogue of the angiotensin IV metabolite LVV-hemorphin-7, developed at Washington State University.

    t½ Unknown in humans (animal studies suggest rapid metabolism with sustained CNS effects) 10–40 mg oral or intranasal per day
    1 studiesView Profile

    Kavain

    NootropicsPreclinical

    Active compound from kava for relaxation and sleep support..

    PreclinicalView Profile

    L-Theanine

    NootropicsFDA Approved

    L-Theanine is a non-proteinogenic amino acid found almost exclusively in tea (Camellia sinensis) and a handful of edible mushrooms, and it has become the single most widely-used calm-focus nootropic in the modern supplement market — both on its own at 100-400mg doses and, even more prominently, as the classic 1:1 or 2:1 pair with caffeine that defines the "calm-focus" experiential signature of green tea and of virtually every serious nootropic stack.

    t½ 1-3 hours (plasma); central CNS effect 3-5 hours
    1226 studiesView Profile

    L-Tyrosine

    NootropicsPreclinical

    L-Tyrosine is a non-essential aromatic amino acid and the direct biosynthetic precursor to the catecholamine neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.

    8 studiesView Profile

    Lion's Mane Mushroom

    NootropicsPhase 2

    Lion's Mane (scientific name Hericium erinaceus; also known as yamabushitake in Japanese, houtou in Chinese, bearded tooth fungus, monkey head mushroom, and pom pom mushroom) is a white-to-cream coloured edible and medicinal mushroom in the tooth fungus family (Hericiaceae), characterised by its distinctive cascading spines that resemble a lion's mane or white cascading icicles.

    554 studiesView Profile

    Free 2026 Peptide Cheat Sheet — 50 pages, PDF

    Dosing, reconstitution, stacks, half-lives, and vendor trust tiers. The reference we wish we had on day one.

    Download Free

    Need bloodwork before starting?

    Full hormone + metabolic panels from Anabolic Insights. Code CHONCH for first-order discount.