7 From Just Coca to Crack Vapes



“”Pharmability”, the feasibility to refine materials to drugs by chemical synthesis, purification etc.” – Fabian Steinmetz & Maja Kohek

What would it take to grow enough opium poppies for heroin, or coca? Further, how could this be done in an equitable way, recognizing that colonialism is at the heart of the drug war? Fabian is one of several researchers and activists working on these questions. When we initially invited Fabian to come on the podcast, we had hoped to talk about his publication exploring the feasibility and harm reduction merits of developing a vape for freebase cocaine (crack). What we soon learned is that Fabian, like many old school activists, has his hand in many projects. From kratom regulation to psychedelic reform to creating an equitable and non-exploitive coca market.

Fabian, a toxicologist by trade, sees a future drug world & is actively imagining what a future drug world could be.

Edited by Marcel Rambo

Help us imagine better drug futures by having a conversation with a friend, sharing the podcast or supporting us at patreon.com/DrugFuturisms

[1] Farmability and pharmability: Transforming the drug market to a health-and human rights-centred approach from self-cultivation to safe supply of controlled substances 

[2] The cocaine-e-cigarette – A theoretical concept of a harm reduction device for current users of smokable cocaine forms – Fabian P Steinmetz, Heino Stöver, 2021

[3] How to regulate stimulants: A practical guide | Transform