Alexander Shulgin Rediscovered MDMA’s Power

In 1976, American chemist Alexander Shulgin, later dubbed the "godfather of ecstasy," rediscovered MDMA, which Merck had first synthesized in 1912. His DEA Schedule I license allowed him to synthesize and possess otherwise illegal drugs in his home laboratory, where he tested and documented psychoactive compounds. Shulgin went on to explore hundreds of drugs, including many phenethylamines and tryptamines, and his work helped introduce MDMA to psychologists and therapists. In 1994, two years after PIHKAL appeared, the DEA raided his lab and requested that he surrender the license.

Previous Fact Next Fact