PDEA: Beware of mescaline

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) yesterday warned the public about mescaline, a prohibited dangerous drug found in the cactus species Lophophora williamsii, commonly known as peyote.

The PDEA said mescaline poses serious health risks to people since it is classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, as well as the 1971 United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances.

The PDEA, however, clarified that not all Lophophora species are illegal.

Only Lophophora williamsii, which contains mescaline, is prohibited by law. Other Lophophora species that do not contain the substance are not banned.

The PDEA said laboratory analysis is required to determine whether a suspected Lophophora specimen contains mescaline, a psychedelic hallucinogen.

The agency reiterated its commitment not only to eliminate illegal drugs, but also to educate the people about substances that threaten their health.