Clonazolam, etizolam and three more benzodiazepines placed in Schedule I

DEA's final rule placing clonazolam, diclazepam, etizolam, flualprazolam, and flubromazolam in Schedule I took effect April 1, 2026.

These five are central nervous system depressants that are structurally and pharmacologically related to classical benzodiazepines such as alprazolam [1]. As of the effective date, unauthorized possession of any of them, in any quantity, can be prosecuted, and retail sales to the general public are not allowed [1]. All five were already under temporary control, by an order dated July 26, 2023 that was extended to run through July 26, 2026 [1]. This rule makes those controls and the criminal penalties attached to them permanent rather than time-limited [1].

DEA's stated basis: high potential for abuse, no accepted medical use in the US, and no accepted safety for use even under medical supervision [1]. Etizolam is prescribed abroad for anxiety, insomnia, and neurosis [1].

Academic research on these substances isn't blocked by the scheduling — researchers can still apply to DEA for authorization [1]. DEA's rulemaking also ties into US treaty obligations under the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, which requires appropriate control of these substances [1]. The rule itself is final and in force.

References

1. Schedules of Controlled Substances: Placement of Clonazolam, Diclazepam, Etizolam, Flualprazolam, and Flubromazolam in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act — Federal Register