What are synthetic drugs and research chemicals?

These types of substances are often sold online, in gas stations, or convenience stores. People who aren’t familiar with the drug culture may not understand how these potentially dangerous drugs can be sold mainly over-the-counter. Enterprising drug dealers and black-market chemists will label synthetic drugs and research chemicals as “not for human consumption.” By labeling them as such, manufacturers can avoid regulation from the FDA and other government authorities. Most synthetic drugs and research chemicals are made overseas and then shipped to the U.S. Many are untested and can have unpredictable effects that can be incredibly dangerous.

FDA Approved Research Chemical Powders

Synthetic drugs and research chemicals were first reported to the U.S. authorities in late 2008, when a batch of the substance Spice, or synthetic marijuana, was confiscated and analyzed in Ohio. Once the FDA or other authorities discover a dangerous synthetic drug or research chemical, the substance is then analyzed chemically and usually banned. Unfortunately, black market dealers and chemists are adept at slightly tweaking the drug’s chemical makeup. They can quickly make new synthetic drugs and then put them back on the market, and the FDA is unable to regulate the new chemicals.

Other types of synthetic and Research chemicals available

Currently, there are over a hundred different types of synthetic drugs and research chemical compounds in existence, with slightly altered forms to escape detection from the DEA and other government regulatory bodies. In 2012, The Synthetic Drug Abuse Prevention Act was passed, which put many of the synthetic drugs into Schedule One classification. Schedule One drugs are substances that are abused and induce a high, that are dangerous, addictive, and have no medical purpose or value. In 2015, more than 500 synthetic drugs were identified. Some of the most common synthetic drugs and research chemicals that are abused today include both stimulant-type substances and synthetic cannabinoids.