Ephedrine Ephedrine is often used to produce phenylacetone, a key intermediate in stimulant synthesis. From phenylacetone, substances like methylone, mephedrone (4-MMC), and 3-CMC can be made using methylamine. Phenylnitropropene, derived from nitroethane, is another precursor. A-PVP and 4-methylpropiophenone are also widely used in synthetic drug production. BMK glycidate is commonly used to synthesize controlled substances.