Analogues

What are Psychedelic Analogues?

Psychedelic analogues (also called “designer drugs” or “research chemicals”) are substances with chemical structure, function, and effect similar to that of better known psychedelics, like LSD and psilocybin. They are created to induce the effects of popular psychedelics while avoiding legal prohibition because of their novel chemical composition.

Are Psychedelic Analogues Legal in Canada?

Possibly, maybe. Possession of certain psychedelic analogues may not be prohibited.

Psychedelic analogues may or may not be covered under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Several substance listings under the law’s Schedule III (including for LSD, psilocybin, psilocin, and DMT) do not prohibit analogues. Analogues of Schedule I psychedelics like MDMA and ketamine, however, often will fall under the legislation’s ambit. 

Even if an analogue is not prohibited under the CDSA, it will still likely be subject to regulation under the Food and Drugs Act, which regulates all “drugs” (as defined) manufactured, distributed (with or without compensation), or advertised for use in “modifying organic functions in human beings or animals.” The FDA’s provisions prohibit manufacture and/or sale of “drugs” for human consumption absent regulatory approval. As such, certain analogues could be effectively legal in Canada, but only for personal possession.

Some attempt to sidestep the FDA’s purview by disclaiming that their analogue products are only sold for “research” purposes. Simply stating as much is unlikely to provide a foolproof legal shield if the circumstances of sale indicate otherwise.

Medical or Therapeutic Use?

Since many psychedelic analogues are somewhat obscure, there is not much data as to their medical or therapeutic efficacy. Or safety. However, as companies increasingly explore the medical and therapeutic potential of psychedelics, there is enormous interest in creating psychedelic analogues or derivatives that provide the benefits associated with psychedelics while limiting or eliminating aspects of the experience unsuitable or alienating for some people (e.g., trip length, loss of control, etc.).

New psychedelic analogues and derivatives are also attractive to companies because novel compounds can be patented, whereas better known psychedelics - known for decades or millennia - are not eligible for new patents.