Entactogen with empathy-boosting effects; a synthetic drug first made in 1912, later popular in therapy and nightlife.
The Department of Health and Human Services has appointed permanent directors for three FDA centres — drugs, vaccines and biologics, and tobacco products — installing Michael Davis, Karim Mikhail and Bret Koplow. The moves follow months of departures at the agency and put acting leaders into permanent roles while HHS creates a new AI and technology oversight post.
Amy Griffin has filed a federal defamation suit in Nevada accusing a former classmate of fabricating her abuse story and alleging that The New York Times published or amplified false claims. The case centers on allegations that Griffin stole another survivor’s story to fuel her bestselling memoir, The Tell, which remains under scrutiny in ongoing litigation and press inquiries.
A cross-border crackdown on county lines has led to multiple seizures, arrests and safeguarding actions as authorities target recruitment of vulnerable youths and drug distribution networks in Merseyside and across the UK.
Eli Lilly has announced an all-cash deal to acquire AtaiBeckley for up to $2.8 billion upfront, with potential milestone payments. AtaiBeckley’s lead drug, a DMT-related nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, is in Phase 3, with initial results expected in 2029. The deal signals growing pharma interest in psychedelic therapies amid regulatory momentum.
A Malaysian airline pilot has been arrested at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta airport after arrival from Kuala Lumpur. Authorities say the officer, identified by initials MS (or MSO in some reports), is connected to a haul of more than 70,000 ecstasy pills and methamphetamine found in his luggage. Drug tests indicate impairment during the flight; Malaysia Airlines is conducting an internal review.
Europol-led operations have arrested dozens in Spain and Ecuador in a drug-smuggling ring linked to Dubai investors. The crackdown targets a network moving South American cocaine and MDMA into Europe, with shipments hidden in commercial containers and bananas. The operation has involved dozens of raids and the seizure of vessels, cash, and weapons.
Police have seized nitrous oxide canisters and ecstasy at Creamfields in Daresbury, Cheshire, ahead of the August bank holiday festival. Officers say more searches will continue as organisers maintain a strict anti-drug policy.
Pills molded with Donald Trump’s head and stamped “Trump NL” have been seized at drug-testing centers. The Trimbos Institute warns they contain PMMA, a slow-acting stimulant linked to overheating and overdose risks. Authorities say the pills are illegal and caution users nationwide.