DEA Locks Down Mystery Drugs MGM-15 and MGM-16 in Schedule I
Published Date: 10/14/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The DEA is keeping two substances, MGM-15 and MGM-16, temporarily listed as Schedule I drugs, meaning they’re treated like the most tightly controlled drugs. This affects anyone who makes, sells, studies, or possesses these substances, with strict rules and penalties in place. The current order stays active until a new one replaces it, so the controls continue without interruption.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Schedule I controls and sanctions for handlers
If you make, sell, import, export, possess, research, or test MGM-15 or MGM-16, you will be subject to the regulatory controls and the administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions that apply to Schedule I substances. The rule explicitly covers manufacturing, distribution, reverse distribution, importation, exportation, research, instructional activities, chemical analysis, and possession.
When the temporary controls take effect
DEA intends to publish the new temporary order on or after November 13, 2026; the order will take effect on its publication date and stay in effect for two years, with a possible one-year extension. The prior temporary order from August 26, 2026 remains in force until it expires on August 26, 2028 or until the new order is published and the prior order is withdrawn, whichever comes first.
Broad chemical coverage with no thresholds
The temporary placement covers MGM-15 and MGM-16 plus their isomers, esters, ethers, salts, and salts of isomers, esters, and ethers whenever such forms are possible. The Department of Health and Human Services did not recommend controlling MGM-15 or MGM-16 only above any specific threshold, so no threshold exemptions are being applied for these two substances.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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