DEA Keeps Same Form for Importing Sketchy Cold Med Chemicals
Published Date: 9/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The DEA is asking to keep using the same form (DEA Form 488) for people who want to import certain chemicals like Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine next year. They’re not changing the form but want your feedback on how easy it is to use. If you import these chemicals, this affects you, and you have until November 23, 2026, to share your thoughts—no new fees or changes, just a smooth extension!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
You must apply for import quotas
If you want to import the List I chemicals Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine, or Phenylpropanolamine for the next calendar year, you must apply for an import quota on DEA Form 488 pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 952 and 21 CFR 1315.34. The requirement applies separately for each such List I chemical.
DEA Form 488 information collection extended without change
The DEA is extending use of DEA Form 488 without changing it and is seeking comments through November 23, 2026. The agency estimates 53 registrants will participate, the time per response is 30 minutes, total annual responses are 143, and the total annual burden is 72 hours with an estimated $0 annual cost burden.
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-19432, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed eCollection eComments Requested; Extension of a Previously Approved Collection; Title-Procurement Quota Certification and Recordkeeping Requirements
The DEA wants to keep collecting info from people who handle certain controlled substances to make sure they follow rules about how much they can get and keep. They’re asking for your thoughts on this paperwork for the next 60 days, until November 23, 2026. This won’t cost extra money but helps keep things clear and fair for everyone involved.
Next: 2026-19434, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed eCollection eComments Requested; Extension of a Previously Approved Collection; Title-Application for Procurement Quota for Controlled Substance and for Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine, and Phenylpropanolamine (DEA Form 250)
The DEA is asking for your thoughts on keeping their form (DEA Form 250) that lets people apply for limits on certain controlled substances and chemicals for next year. This affects businesses and individuals who handle these substances, and the DEA wants to make sure the form is easy to use and not too time-consuming. You have until November 23, 2026, to share your feedback—no money changes, just a chance to help improve the process!