DEAProposed Rule

Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of Bromazolam in Schedule I

HealthcareOther

Summary

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is proposing to classify bromazolam, a dangerous synthetic drug, as a Schedule I controlled substance, which is the most restrictive category reserved for drugs with no medical use and high abuse potential. This means bromazolam would become illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess without special permission, similar to heroin and LSD.

Key Points

  • 1Bromazolam, a synthetic benzodiazepine-like drug sold on illegal markets, would be temporarily placed in Schedule I, making it federally illegal
  • 2The drug is being restricted because it poses serious health risks including overdose, addiction, and dangerous interactions with other substances
  • 3People caught with bromazolam could face criminal penalties including fines and prison time
  • 4This is a proposed rule, meaning the DEA is seeking public feedback before making it final
  • 5The temporary placement allows the DEA time to study the drug further while protecting public health immediately

Impact Assessment

If you are a manufacturer or distributor of bromazolam, you must immediately cease production and distribution, and any existing inventory becomes illegal to possess without DEA authorization.

Impact Level
Moderate
Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

Minimal

Who is Affected
ManufacturersHealthcare ProvidersConsumers

Key Dates

Published

December 15, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
21 CFR Part 1308

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.