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.