DEA Notice of Application by Research Triangle Institute to Bulk Manufacture Tetrahydrocannabinols (THC)

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) published a notice on April 3, 2026, announcing that Research Triangle Institute (RTI), located at 3040 East Cornwallis Road, Durham, North Carolina, applied on March 3, 2026, to register as a bulk manufacturer of Tetrahydrocannabinols (THC, drug code 7370, Schedule I controlled substance). RTI intends to synthetically produce THC in bulk for distribution to customers solely for research purposes and as analytical reference standards. No other activities, such as dosage-form manufacturing or distribution for other uses, are authorized under this proposed registration. Registered bulk manufacturers of THC and other interested applicants have until June 2, 2026, to submit electronic comments or objections via the Federal eRulemaking Portal at regulations.gov. They may also request a hearing by the same deadline. Comments require a tracking number upon submission, and public visibility on the portal is not immediate. This process follows 21 CFR 1301.33(a), ensuring transparency in controlled substance registrations. The notice, signed by Deputy Assistant Administrator Thomas Prevoznik under Docket No. DEA-1698, highlights RTI's specific focus on synthetic THC production, distinguishing it from natural extraction methods. This application supports RTI's research-oriented operations without expanding into commercial or medical distribution.

AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.