The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has scheduled a 10-day hearing to discuss the potential Psychedelics Ban of two psychedelic substances, 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-chloroamphetamine (DOC). This decision comes after increasing pressure from scientists, researchers, and advocates who argue that these compounds hold significant potential in treating mental health conditions and advancing scientific research. The hearing is set to begin on November 12, 2024, and will be crucial in determining whether these substances will be placed under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act.
What Are DOI and DOC?
DOI and DOC are psychedelic amphetamines known for their hallucinogenic properties. Both compounds are known to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly 5-HT2A, which is crucial for mood regulation. These psychedelics have been used in research settings to study their potential impact on conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Despite their psychoactive properties, researchers argue that there is limited evidence of significant harm or high abuse potential associated with DOI and DOC. In fact, many scientists claim that these substances could be beneficial for advancing psychedelic therapy and exploring new treatments for mental health conditions. One report noted that while DOI and DOC do have hallucinogenic effects, there is little data to support claims of dependence or severe adverse health outcomes.
DEA’s Concerns and the Push for a Psychedelics Ban
The DEA initially proposed a ban on DOI and DOC in 2022, arguing that these substances pose a potential threat to public safety. The agency maintained that there is no recognized medical use for these psychedelics and cited concerns over high abuse potential. However, following significant pushback from the scientific community, the DEA postponed the decision and agreed to the upcoming 10-day hearing​.
The DEA’s concerns primarily stem from anecdotal reports of hallucinogenic effects and one reported case where DOC was used in combination with other drugs, resulting in a death. However, critics point out that there is no strong scientific evidence directly linking these substances to widespread harm. Researchers have emphasized that placing DOI and DOC under Schedule I could severely hinder medical research on these compounds​.
Why the Hearing Matters
This hearing represents a significant opportunity for researchers and advocates to present evidence supporting the continued legal use of DOI and DOC for scientific and medical purposes. Advocates argue that placing these substances under Schedule I would dramatically slow progress in the growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy, which has already shown promising results in treating conditions like treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
For many in the research community, the upcoming hearing offers a chance to underscore the importance of keeping DOI and DOC accessible for further scientific study. This is particularly relevant as the mental health crisis continues to grow globally, with millions suffering from conditions that current treatments fail to adequately address.
Conclusion: A Critical Moment for Psychedelic Research
The DEA’s decision to hold a 10-day hearing on the proposed ban of DOI and DOC is a critical step in the ongoing debate over how psychedelics should be regulated in the United States. While the agency remains cautious about the potential risks, the research community sees this as an opportunity to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of these substances. The outcome of this hearing could have far-reaching consequences, not only for psychedelic research but also for the future of mental health treatment.
