Defined
A controlled substance is a drug or chemical that is regulated by a government agency, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in the United States. These substances are classified into five categories, or schedules, based on their potential for abuse, their known medical use, and their safety or dependence liability.
The criteria for determining which substances are controlled and which schedule they are placed in vary from country to country. In the United States, the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) sets out the criteria for determining which substances are controlled and the schedule they are placed in. The schedules range from Schedule I (the most restrictive) to Schedule V (the least restrictive).
Schedule I
Substances in Schedule I have a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision. Examples of Schedule I substances in the United States include heroin, LSD, and marijuana.
Schedule II
Substances in Schedule II have a high potential for abuse, a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, or a currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions, and a potential for severe psychological or physical dependence. Examples of Schedule II substances in the United States include oxycodone, cocaine, and methamphetamine.
Schedule III
Substances in Schedule III have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule I or II drugs, a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a potential for moderate to low physical dependence or high psychological dependence. Examples of Schedule III substances in the United States include testosterone, anabolic steroids, and codeine.
Schedule IV
Substances in Schedule IV have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule III drugs, a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a potential for limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to Schedule III drugs. Examples of Schedule IV substances in the United States include Xanax and Valium.
Schedule V
Substances in Schedule V have the lowest potential for abuse, a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a low potential for physical or psychological dependence relative to Schedule IV drugs. Examples of Schedule V substances in the United States include Robitussin AC and Lomotil.
It's important to note that controlled substances are regulated by the government to ensure that they are used safely and effectively. They can be prescribed by licensed healthcare providers and dispensed by pharmacies to patients who have a legitimate need for them. However, it is illegal to use, possess, manufacture, or distribute controlled substances without a valid prescription or other legal authorization.
Regardless of the classification of the offense, it is important that you seek the assistance of competent legal counsel to help you best understand your legal defense while identifying an outcome that best minimizes your risk. We here at the H Law Group patiently await your call.
