DEA Cracks Down on Weird Ketamine Cousin, Schedules It Tight
Published Date: 1/20/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Starting February 19, 2026, 2-fluorodeschloroketamine (2-FDCK) will be temporarily placed in Schedule I, meaning it’s treated like the most tightly controlled drugs. This affects anyone who makes, sells, studies, or even possesses 2-FDCK, who will now face strict rules and possible penalties. The move helps keep this new drug off the streets while the government figures out the long-term plan.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
2‑FDCK Placed in Schedule I
Starting when the temporary order is published on or after February 19, 2026, 2‑fluorodeschloroketamine (2‑FDCK) — including its salts and isomers — will be listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. That means people who manufacture, distribute, import, export, sell, or possess 2‑FDCK will be subject to the regulatory controls and the administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions that apply to Schedule I substances.
Research & Instruction Restricted
Once the temporary Schedule I order is in effect (on or after February 19, 2026), research, instructional activities, and chemical analysis involving 2‑FDCK will be subject to the regulatory controls that govern Schedule I substances. Institutions, laboratories, instructors, and researchers handling or proposing to handle 2‑FDCK will need to comply with Schedule I requirements and will be subject to administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions if they do not.
Temporary Order Is Not Judicially Reviewable
The temporary scheduling order for 2‑FDCK will not be subject to judicial review while it remains in effect. The order will be issued under 21 U.S.C. 811(h) and will take effect on publication (on or after February 19, 2026) and remain for two years, with possible extension of one additional year.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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