DEA Faces Setback As Judge Denies Request To Block Witnesses In Psychedelics Ban Hearing

In a significant development for psychedelics research, a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) administrative law judge has rejected the agency's request to block key witnesses and evidence in an upcoming hearing. The case, set for November, challenges the DEA's proposed ban on two psychedelic compounds, DOI and DOC, which are used in research.

DEA’s Argument On Irrelevance Of Testimonies Rejected

The DEA sought to exclude certain experts and materials, claiming they were "irrelevant" to the case. However, as Marijuana Moment reported, administrative Law Judge Paul Soeffing denied the motion, stating it was premature to determine the relevance of the testimony. This is seen as a partial win for groups like Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) and Panacea Plant Sciences (PPS), which oppose the ban.

The hearing aims to shed light on the proposed ban, which opponents say lacks evidence of abuse potential or health risks. Researchers argue there’s insufficient justification for classifying DOI and DOC as high-risk substances, as scientific literature shows no documented deaths or significant adverse reactions solely from these compounds. Studies over the past 35 years suggest DOI and DOC may effectively treat chronic pain, opioid and alcohol addiction and other mental health disorders.

Advocates Speak Out Against Schedule I Designation

Kat Murti, executive director of SSDP, expressed relief at the judge's decision. "The DEA is trying to force medical research into the dark ages by criminalizing DOI and DOC—essential research chemicals in pre-clinical psychiatry and neurobiology." She added that the judge's decision is "a victory not only for scientific integrity but for the tens of thousands of Americans suffering from depression, anxiety, and chronic pain."

David Heldreth, CEO of PPS, echoed these sentiments. "We hope the rest of the hearing continues to go our way." Heldreth and his organization have been at the forefront of the legal challenge against the DEA, fighting for the continued use of DOI and DOC in research.

An Ongoing Challenge

This resolution is part of a longer battle between the DEA and the scientific community. The DEA’s action to place DOI and DOC in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act dates back to 2018, and has been met with significant pushback. These compounds are unscheduled at the moment and have been pivotal in research aimed at treating conditions like chronic pain, addiction and mental health disorders. Opponents argue that a Schedule I designation would severely impede scientific research on these substances.

The hearing is scheduled to run from November 12-22, with a final meeting on November 25, as researchers and advocates continue their fight to prevent the ban on DOI and DOC.

Cover image made with AI.