House adds tianeptine and phenibut to controlled‑substances list; HB 173 passes
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Summary
House Bill 173 passed the Utah House 74-0 to add two substances to the state's controlled-substance schedule. The sponsor cited recent local hospitalizations and the substances' lack of accepted medical use as justification for Schedule I placement.
The Utah House unanimously approved House Bill 173, Controlled Substances Act Amendments, to add two substances to the state’s controlled-substance schedule after the sponsor described local harms and a lack of accepted medical use.
Representative Cutler, the bill sponsor, recounted a recent case in which a young adult was hospitalized after ingesting phenibut purchased online. He said that experience raised his awareness of harmful supplements sold as over-the-counter products. Cutler told the House the bill would add tianeptine and phenibut to the controlled-substance list and that doctors consulted did not identify medical uses for those substances, supporting placement on Schedule I.
“We propose that they be on the controlled substances, schedule 1 list,” Cutler said. The sponsor said the measure was developed with the controlled-substance committee and medical professionals.
The House recorded a 74-0 vote in favor and sent HB 173 to the Senate for further consideration.
Votes at a glance: HB 173 (Controlled Substances Act Amendments) — Final passage: 74 yes, 0 no.
Supporters said listing the substances would help keep dangerous products off retail shelves and clarify retailer obligations.