DEA speeds up application process for research on Schedule I drugs

WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration is streamlining the application process for researchers who study or wish to study Schedule I substances not currently approved for medical use. Schedule I drugs are defined as drugs, substances, or chemicals with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, such as ecstasy or LSD.

By taking the process online, both existing and new researchers can submit their applications through a dedicated web portal [https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drugreg/index.html], improving efficiency and security.

The Controlled Substances Act requires an individual who wishes to conduct research on substances listed in Schedule I to register with DEA. Applicants must provide information about their qualifications, research protocol, and institution where the research will take place. 

“We are committed to finding new and innovative ways to meet the needs of the research community,” said Acting DEA Administrator Robert W. Patterson. “Research is the bedrock of science, and we will—as we have for many years—continue to support and promote legitimate research with Schedule I controlled substances.”

As of December 2017, more than 590 researchers were registered with DEA to study Schedule I substances. Every researcher who has submitted a valid research proposal has been approved. Many researchers conduct multiple research protocols, so the number of approved studies with Schedule I substances exceeds the number of registered researchers.