Stop the DEA from Scheduling DOI & DOC!
SSDP is leading the fight to keep psychedelic research legal.
In April 2022, the DEA announced their intention to move two psychedelic research chemicals that have been used safely for decades to Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act—effectively blocking research.
Within weeks, SSDP’s Science Policy Council—a group of PhD students and other researchers who are fighting back against the War on Drugs with SSDP—leapt into action, demanding a hearing. After extensive legal back-and-forth, the DEA backed down in August 2022, withdrawing their proposal.
Unfortunately, the fight was not over. In December 2023, perhaps imagining the move would be lost amongst the end-of-year holiday season, the DEA again proposed scheduling DOI and DOC. SSDP again demanded a hearing to stop the scheduling, which after some more legal maneuvering, we now expect to happen sometime next year.
The future of psychedelics rests in our hands. Join the fight to keep DOI and DOC legal!
The Importance of DOI and DOC in Research
DOI, in particular, has been a cornerstone in neuroscience research due to its high selectivity for the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor, a critical component in understanding and potentially enhancing the therapeutic effects of psychedelics. Over the past two decades, DOI has been cited in more than 900 research articles, contributing to our understanding of complex neural mechanisms and offering potential pathways for breakthrough treatments.
Moreover, recent studies utilizing DOI have shown encouraging results in managing pain and reducing opioid cravings—a beacon of hope in the ongoing opioid crisis. The scientific value of DOI and DOC cannot be overstated, as these molecules help to deepen our understanding of brain function and could lead to revolutionary treatments for numerous psychological and physiological ailments.
Bureaucratic Barriers to Research
Scheduling DOI and DOC as Schedule 1 substances imposes onerous financial and bureaucratic obstacles on researchers. Obtaining a Schedule 1 license involves a daunting array of red tape and substantial costs, which can be prohibitive for many research institutions, particularly smaller labs and academic departments.
The Need for Advocacy and Support
It is crucial for anyone with influence in Congress or connections within the Biden administration to advocate against the DEA’s intent to schedule these substances. Support from health departments and national institutes like HHS and NIDA could also prove pivotal in emphasizing the necessity of these compounds for scientific advancement and public health.
A Call to Action
We urge the broader community, especially those who could be directly impacted by these potential treatments, such as veterans and individuals struggling with addiction, to voice their concerns and push for a science-based, rational approach to drug scheduling. The ability to research and potentially utilize DOI and DOC could lead to significant breakthroughs in treating some of today’s most challenging health issues.
In conclusion, it is not just about keeping two chemical compounds available for research; it’s about preserving the integrity of scientific inquiry, advancing medical treatment, and ultimately, impacting lives positively. The DEA’s current path is a disservice to science, to health, and to the principles of justice and compassion. Let’s stand together to advocate for sensible drug policy and ensure that potential treatments can reach those in need without undue governmental interference.
We do this work because the war on drugs is a war on us.
