Effects of Schedule I drug laws on neuroscience research and treatment innovation
King, C., Nichols, D. E.
This opinion article (2013) provides a scientific perspective on how Schedule I drug laws affect neuroscientific research using controlled substances. It shows how the legal approach to drug control has hindered research into the therapeutic potential of cannabis, stimulants, and psychedelic drugs. Moving these substances from Schedule I to Schedule II would make them more accessible for research. Still, this decision would require approval by a majority of United Nations Member States. However, preclinical research could be performed more quickly if a licensing category was created in the law, especially for scientists who need only small amounts of drugs.
Abstract
Introduction: Many psychoactive drugs are used recreationally, particularly by young people. This use and its perceived dangers have led to many different classes of drugs being banned under national laws and international conventions. Indeed, the possession of cannabis, 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA; also known as ecstasy) and psychedelics is stringently regulated. An important and unfortunate outcome of the controls placed on these and other psychoactive drugs is that they make research into their mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic uses - for example, in depression and post-traumatic stress disorder - difficult and in many cases almost impossible.