DEA revisits proposed ban on two psychedelic compounds: Researchers disagree, insist on hearings

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is reviewing its position on the classification of two psychedelic compounds, 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-chloroamphetamine (DOC), Marijuana reported Moment.

DEA Proposal to Ban DOI and DOC

It has been proposed that DOI and DOC be listed as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). If added to the Schedule I list, these compounds would be officially considered to have high abuse potential with no recognized medical use.

The assessment is disputed by experts. Three formal requests for hearings were made, prompting the agency to reconsider the matter. The listing raises concerns within the scientific community and companies developing neurological and medical research that rely on them.

Chemically, DOI and DOC are analogues of the Schedule I hallucinogenic DOM. The effects and pharmacological action of DOI and DOC are similar to those of other Schedule I hallucinogens, such as DOM and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). These precedents will pose a challenge to those challenging the proposed ban.
The DEA has now agreed to hold a hearing on June 10, 2024, at its facility in Arlington, Virginia, in a sign of its willingness to engage in further dialogue before reaching a final decision.

History repeats itself

This is not the DEA’s first attempt to tighten controls on these compounds. The discussion has been ongoing since 2018, when the first report was filed. The agency proposed a similar rule in April 2022, only to withdraw it later in August for further review. The main arguments in favor of the proposed classification remain based on the compounds’ similarity to other Schedule I hallucinogens, such as DOM and LSD, known for their potent effects and abuse potential, but there is serious evidence of health problems leading to abuse and death among consumers. lacking.

As with cannabis, the DEA ruling will have consequences for the future development of the medical industry, including research based on these highly controlled compounds. It could also influence progress in the medical treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental health problems.