DEA classifies oripavine as Schedule II

DEA has issued a final rule designating oripavine as a basic class in Schedule II of the Controlled Substances Act. The agency explained that there's no need to promulgate this rule as a proposal first because oripavine is already subject to control under Schedule II as a derivative of thebaine, a natural constituent of opium. DEA is taking this new action in order to comply with international treaty obligations. The final rule took effect on Sept. 24. For more information on the rule, go to