Midomafetamine

2024 saw significant drug policy changes, including Kamala Harris's pledge to federally legalize cannabis, and rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III. Lenacapavir, a new HIV prevention drug, was named breakthrough of the year. Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy showed potential for treating addiction and neurodegenerative diseases. Overdose deaths declined nationally for the first time since the 1990s, though racial disparities persist. Psychedelics faced setbacks with FDA not approving MDMA for PTSD and Massachusetts rejecting a ballot measure for home-use of psilocybin. The White House accused Syria's Assad of profiting from Captagon sales, leading to its destruction and potential relocation of manufacturing. 'Pink cocaine' gained popularity, posing risks due to its unknown composition.

PharmAla Biotech reports $1.0M revenue for FY 2024, up 95% YoY, with Adjusted EBITDA improving by $605,000 to ($55,000). The company secured patents for novel MDXX molecules and completed a continuance to Ontario. A private placement raised $1.56M, oversubscribed by 12%, to fund global patent rights, product manufacturing, and clinical trials.

In 2023, Biden Administration recommended cannabis reclassification, with progress continuing into 2024. The FDA rejected MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD in August, with another clinical trial planned. Boulder's Cannabis Licensing and Advisory Board considered a marijuana concentrates ban, which the industry opposes. Colorado prepared for psychedelic healing centers, with training programs approved and licenses available from December. Naropa's psychedelic program was delayed but will be run by Memoru Center. Healing centers will initially use psilocybin and psilocin, with potential expansion to other substances in 2026.

DEA increases 2025 DMT production quota to 20,000 grams to support FDA-approved drug development, citing research needs and public comments. Several companies are exploring DMT for treating mental health conditions and brain injuries.

The IRS updated its Strategic Operating Plan, recovering $4.7 billion through initiatives like targeting high-income non-filers and criminal investigations. Key areas include $1.3 billion from high-wealth individuals, $2.9 billion from criminal investigations, and $475 million from whistleblower information. The IRS also improved taxpayer services and digital tools, expanding online self-service options and launching more digital tools in the last two years than in the previous 20.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is funding a $1.5 million, five-year study on MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD in veterans, starting next year. The treatment is believed to increase emotional openness, reduce fear, and promote introspection during therapy. This initiative follows calls from lawmakers and advocates for more research into psychedelic treatments to address high veteran suicide rates.

Recent studies show psilocybin can treat severe depression and PTSD by promoting neuroplasticity. Peter Silverstone, a psychopharmacology expert, highlights psychedelics' potential as a mental health breakthrough. Despite risks, supervised use shows promise, with Alberta leading in psychedelic therapy regulation and insurance coverage. Caution is advised due to potential risks and hype.

UCLA Health analysis suggests MDMA-assisted therapy could improve outcomes for trauma-related conditions in military personnel, enhancing self-esteem, social connections, and neural plasticity, despite FDA rejection for PTSD treatment.

Thai police detained 124 people in underwear at a Bangkok drug party, finding 31 with illegal narcotics. 66 tested positive, mostly men, including 5 foreigners. Police seek court permission to extend questioning for drug suspects.