Notwithstanding that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has twice designated psilocybin a Breakthrough Therapy—first for treatment-resistant depression and then for major depressive disorder, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has steadfastly refused to even initiate the process for rescheduling the drug. In early 2021, Dr. Sunil Aggarwal and Advanced Integrative Medical Science Institute, PLLC asked the DEA how he might obtain psilocybin for therapeutic use under Right to Try laws. In response, DEA said it had no authority to permit such uses because psilocybin is a schedule I drug permitted for research use only.
DEA’s refusal to accommodate access to psylocibin under RTT, let alone open a scientific review related to a rescheduling petition, not only undermines congressional goals, but also exceeds its authority. The food, drug and cosmetics act (FDCA), controlled substances act (CSA) and right to try (RTT) laws were created to protect the life and health of the public from dangerous and ineffective medications. But as was learned during the early days of the HIV/AIDS when those legal protections only produce suffering and death, they serve no legitimate legal and public health purpose. Sometimes government can do best for its citizens by simply stepping out of the way.
This program explores the potential therapeutic role of Psilocybin, and the paths available to meaningful scientific review of its use.
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As advances in biotechnology and biomedicine gain momentum, so do issues concerning their ethical, legal, and social implications in the United States and around the world. From stem cell research to healthcare reform, these topics involve critical dilemmas at the intersections of law, society, culture, public policy, philosophy, religion, economics, and history. The Master of Science in Bioethics grounds students in interdisciplinary approaches and models to address the most pressing bioethical challenges. The program prepares students to act as responsible and responsive leaders in this new and ever-growing field. It also includes a concentration in global bioethics – the first of its kind in the U.S. Columbia’s Bioethics program offers a range of degrees and courses.
Learn more about Bioethics at Columbia University School of Professional Studies, or contact the program admissions counselor.
https://apply.sps.columbia.edu/register/request-information
Admissions Counselor
+1 (212) 854-9666
bioethics@sps.columbia.edu
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