Drug precursors

Drug precursors are substances that are used in the production or manufacture of illicit drugs. They are not necessarily illegal substances, as they often have legitimate uses in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and cosmetics. However, their potential for misuse in the production of illegal drugs has led to increased regulation and control.

Definition

A Drug precursor is a substance which is used in the chemical synthesis or manufacture of a pharmacologically active substance. In the context of illegal drugs, it refers to a substance which is crucial for creating a psychoactive drug, especially those which are produced illegally.

Regulation

Due to their potential misuse in the production of illicit drugs, drug precursors are regulated by both national and international laws. The United Nations has established a framework for the international control of drug precursors, which is implemented by the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). In the European Union, the regulation of drug precursors is governed by the European Commission.

Common Drug Precursors

Some common drug precursors include ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and phenyl-2-propanone (P2P), which are used in the production of methamphetamine; acetic anhydride, which is used in the production of heroin; and safrole, which is used in the production of MDMA (Ecstasy).

Prevention and Control

Efforts to prevent and control the diversion of drug precursors include monitoring and regulation of the chemical industry, cooperation between law enforcement and industry, and public awareness campaigns. The INCB plays a key role in these efforts, by monitoring the global trade in drug precursors and assisting countries in preventing their diversion.

See Also

• Controlled Substances Act
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• Psychoactive drug
• Illegal drug trade