DEA list of chemicals

DEA List of Chemicals refers to a compilation of chemicals identified by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as being used in the production of controlled substances and illicit drugs. This list is part of the DEA's efforts to regulate and monitor the manufacture, distribution, and sale of precursor chemicals used in the synthesis of illegal drugs, in accordance with the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and the Chemical Diversion and Trafficking Act (CDTA).

Overview

The DEA List of Chemicals is divided into several categories, primarily based on the chemical's utility in the production of illicit drugs. These categories include List I chemicals, which are chemicals that have a high potential for being used in the illicit manufacture of controlled substances, and List II chemicals, which are chemicals that, while having legitimate uses, are also used in the production of controlled substances. The inclusion of a chemical on either list subjects handlers of these chemicals to regulatory requirements, including registration, record-keeping, reporting, and import/export restrictions as outlined by the DEA.

List I Chemicals

List I chemicals are those that are frequently used in the production of illicit drugs. Examples of List I chemicals include:

• Ephedrine, used in the synthesis of methamphetamine
• Pseudoephedrine, also used in the synthesis of methamphetamine
• Phenyl-2-propanone (P2P), used in the production of amphetamine and methamphetamine
• Ergonovine and Ergotamine, used in the synthesis of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)

List II Chemicals

List II chemicals have legitimate uses but can also be diverted for the illicit production of controlled substances. Examples of List II chemicals include:

• Acetic Anhydride, used in the production of heroin
• Hydrochloric Acid, used in the synthesis of various controlled substances
• Sulfuric Acid, also used in the synthesis of various controlled substances
• Potassium Permanganate, used in the manufacture of cocaine

Regulations and Enforcement

The DEA, under the CSA and CDTA, imposes strict regulations on the handling of List I and List II chemicals. Entities that manufacture, distribute, import, or export these chemicals must register with the DEA and comply with record-keeping and reporting requirements. The DEA conducts inspections and audits to ensure compliance with these regulations, and failure to comply can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Impact and Controversy

The regulation of precursor chemicals has been a critical component of the DEA's strategy to combat the illicit drug trade. However, these regulations have also been subject to criticism from various stakeholders, including the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, which argue that the regulations can impede legitimate scientific research and industrial activities. Additionally, there are concerns about the effectiveness of these regulations in curbing the illicit drug trade, as drug manufacturers often find alternative chemicals or production methods to circumvent controls.

See Also

• Controlled Substances Act
• Chemical Diversion and Trafficking Act
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• Precursor (chemistry)
• Illicit drug trade