DEA Bans Risky Synthetic Drug MDMB-4en-PINACA Immediately
Published Date: 4/24/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting April 27, 2026, the DEA is officially putting MDMB-4en-PINACA—a powerful and risky chemical—into Schedule I, the strictest drug category. This means anyone making, selling, or using it will face serious legal rules and penalties. This move helps the U.S. follow international drug laws and keeps communities safer from this dangerous substance.
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Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
MDMB-4en-PINACA placed in Schedule I
On April 27, 2026, the Drug Enforcement Administration permanently placed MDMB-4en-PINACA (including its salts and isomers) in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. That means manufacture, distribution, import/export, research, or possession of MDMB-4en-PINACA without proper authorization is subject to Schedule I regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions.
DEA Registration and Compliance Required
Anyone who handles MDMB-4en-PINACA (manufacture, distribute, import/export, research, chemical analysis, or possession) must register with DEA and comply with Schedule I rules starting April 27, 2026. Registered handlers must follow specific controls including security, labeling and packaging rules, quota limits, order form requirements, and recordkeeping and reporting obligations; inventories are required initially when first handling and then at least every two years.
Research Allowed With Schedule I Registration
Placement in Schedule I does not prohibit bona fide research on MDMB-4en-PINACA, but researchers must apply for and obtain Schedule I researcher registration through DEA's researcher registration program to conduct such work. The rule notes researchers wishing to study Schedule I substances may apply for permission under the schedule I researcher registration process.
DEA Certifies Minimal Small-Entity Impact
DEA certified that this final rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. DEA stated it identified one supplier in relevant industries (already DEA-registered) and found no evidence of significant diversion from legitimate suppliers.
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