Policy
Following an attempt to ban five novel psychedelic substances, the DEA has withdrawn its proposal so that scientists will have more time to research therapeutic benefits. This decision came on the heels of a public hearing a few weeks ago where advocates, researchers, and policy experts spoke out against the ban.
Looking to the future, legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate to end federal cannabis prohibition, President Joe Biden’s administration is planning for the possibility of legal psychedelic therapy within the next two years, and Colorado voters will be voting this November about whether to legalize psychedelics in the state. In addition, San Francisco is working toward decriminalizing psychedelics in the future.
Industry
The world’s first ecstasy “shop” opened in the Netherlands, just outside of Amsterdam in the city of Utrecht. Named “De XTC Winkel” (“The Ecstasy Shop” in English), the temporary store will remain open until mid-September. Since MDMA is illegal in the Netherlands, no drugs will be on sale. Instead, the shop will provide an interactive experience of how a real ecstasy shop could work in a future where the drug is legal.
Research
Health Canada halted trials for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy to review potential patient safety issues and found that while some corrective measures were put in place, at least one of the trials has been allowed to continue. The safety review was in large part a reaction to coverage from publications like Psymposia, New York Magazine, and The Cut, which put a spotlight on serious issues in MAPS MDMA trials involving patient safety and the abuse of power dynamics by nefarious therapists and facilitators.
Harm Reduction
Back in February a batch of champagne was taken off the European market due to contamination with MDMA, and a second batch was recalled this month. The latest batch killed one person and poisoned 10 others. It’s unclear how MDMA-infused champagne is entering the market, but it’s worth mentioning that mixing ecstasy into alcohol and serving it to others without their knowledge is irresponsible and dangerous.
Miscellaneous
The psychedelic community lost one of its most influential elders this month. Ann Shulgin, wife of late Alexander “Sasha” Shulgin, passed away at the age of 91. Known for pioneering the therapeutic use of MDMA, 2C-B, and several other psychedelic compounds, Ann and Sasha co-authored two seminal books—PiHKAL: A Chemical Love Story and TiHKAL: The Continuation. She will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Ann.
If you’re looking for some new psychedelic content to consume, look no further than Michael Pollan’s new four-part docuseries called How to Change Your Mind on Netflix. And if you know someone who would benefit from learning more about psychedelics, this is a great introductory crash course for them to check out.
Additional Top Stories
Your Genes May Determine How You React To Psychedelic Drugs (IFLScience)
Churches sue to use hallucinogenic tea in religious practice (UPI)
Largest-ever clinical study of ketamine therapy shows that at-home model can be a safe, effective treatment for anxiety and depression; 62% fewer patients report suicidal ideation after four sessions (PR Newswire)
That’s all for this month’s update. Remember to always test and weigh your drugs and until next time—keep thinking wilder.
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