Georgia Laws & Policy on Psychedelics

Current Legal Status in Georgia

• Psilocybin & MDMA: Classified as Schedule I drugs meaning they are considered to have "no accepted medical use" and a high potential for abuse under Georgia law.

• Ketamine Therapy: Ketamine is legal when administered by a licensed professional. Ketamine-assisted therapy is currently used for treatment-resistant depression and PTSD in the state of Georgia. Ketamine was originally created as a surgical anesthetic but was found to have psychiatric benefits, particularly for treatment resistant depression and PTSD. It can be provided “off label” as an IV or through other means, notably Spravato (Esketamine), a FDA approved nasal spray.

• Federal Psychedelic Research: While Georgia does not have a legal framework for psychedelic-assisted therapy, research studies are underway at Emory University and other institutions researching the effects of psilocybin and MDMA as a form of mental health interventions. 

Advocacy & Policy Updates

• Local Advocacy: Mental health advocates and research organizations are working to educate lawmakers and the public about the benefits of psychedelics in mental health treatment.

• Future Outlook: As more clinical trials demonstrate the safety and efficacy of psychedelics, there may be opportunities for policy reform in Georgia in the coming years.
  

  Resources & Further Reading

  Georgia Drug Schedules & Laws – Official Georgia law governing controlled substances

  Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) – Leading research on MDMA and psychedelic therapy

  Emory University Psychedelic Research – Ongoing studies on psychedelics in mental health treatment

  Federal Psychedelic Policy Updates – Learn about national trends in psychedelic policy