DEA Corrects Rule to Add 2-Methyl AP-237 to Schedule I
Estimated reading time: 1–7 minutes
On June 3, 2025, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issued a correcting amendment in the Federal Register. This update concerns the controlled substance 2-methyl AP-237.
What is 2-methyl AP-237?
2-methyl AP-237 is a synthetic drug. Its full name is 1-(2-methyl-4-(3-phenylprop-2-en-1-yl)piperazin-1-yl)butan-1-one. It belongs to a group of drugs called synthetic opioids. These drugs can be changed in small ways in a lab to make similar versions.
Why was there a correction?
The DEA first published a final order on March 15, 2024. This order put 2-methyl AP-237 and its related chemical forms into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule I drugs are thought to have a high chance for abuse and no approved medical use.
The order said this new rule would start 30 days later, on April 15, 2024. Before this date came, the DEA published another rule about three different drugs. These drugs—etodesnitazene, N-pyrrolidino etonitazene, and protonitazene—were also put into Schedule I. Because these two rules overlapped, there was a mistake in the text about how 2-methyl AP-237 should be listed.
What does the correction do?
The correction fixes the list in the government rules. It adds 2-methyl AP-237 to 21 CFR 1308.11(b), which is the official list for Schedule I drugs. It also adds its special drug code number, 9664.
All other parts of the rule stay the same. The correction says 2-methyl AP-237 has been in Schedule I since April 15, 2024. The change in the text does not change when the rule started.
How does this affect the law?
Since April 15, 2024, it has been illegal to make, sell, or have 2-methyl AP-237 without special permission. This applies to the drug and any chemical forms that are possible.
Who signed this correction?
The correction was signed on May 27, 2025, by DEA Acting Administrator Robert J. Murphy. Heather Achbach, DEA Federal Register Liaison Officer, submitted the document for publication.
Where can you get more information?
Questions can go to Dr. Terrence L. Boos at the DEA Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section. The phone number is (571) 362-3249.
Summary
2-methyl AP-237 is now clearly listed as a Schedule I controlled substance. The rule has been effective since April 15, 2024. The correction fixes a technical mistake and makes the listing official and clear.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For case-specific consultation, please contact us. Read our full Legal Disclaimer, which also includes information on translation accuracy.
