Research chemicals

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Chemistry icon li.svg
This article is a stub related to chemistry. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


Research chemicals are chemical substances used by scientists for medical and scientific research purposes. One characteristic of a research chemical is that it is for laboratory research use only; a research chemical is not intended for veterinary or human use. This distinction is required on the labels of research chemicals, and is what exemplies them from regulation under parts of the United States regulatory laws such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.

Definition[edit | edit source]

The term "research chemical" primarily refers to substances which are synthesized in laboratories and are often used to explore the structure, function, and various other properties of chemical compounds. The use of the term has expanded over time to include a variety of psychoactive substances that are used in scientific research, particularly in the fields of pharmacology, chemistry, and medicine.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

Due to the potential misuse of these chemicals in the recreational drug market, many countries have strict regulations governing their manufacture, sale, and distribution. In the United States, research chemicals are regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) under the Controlled Substances Act where they may be classified as Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V substances depending on their potential for abuse and therapeutic value.

Usage[edit | edit source]

Research chemicals are used in various scientific studies, including but not limited to, neuroscience, pharmacology, and chemistry. Researchers rely on these substances to conduct experiments and achieve insights into chemical properties and reactions that might be applied to a wide range of practical applications, from developing new medications to enhancing the understanding of neurological diseases.

Ethical Considerations[edit | edit source]

The use of research chemicals also brings up ethical considerations regarding the potential for abuse and the environmental impact of chemical waste produced during research. Institutions that use these chemicals are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal to minimize environmental damage.

See Also[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD