Controlled substances are drugs and other substances that are regulated by the government due to their potential for abuse and dependence, as well as their medical benefits. There are five categories, or schedules, of controlled substances in the United States, as defined by the Controlled Substances Act:
Schedule I: This category includes drugs that have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Examples include heroin, LSD, and marijuana.
Schedule II: This category includes drugs that have a high potential for abuse and dependence, but also have some accepted medical uses. Examples include oxycodone, fentanyl, and Adderall.
Schedule III: This category includes drugs that have a moderate to low potential for abuse and dependence, and have accepted medical uses. Examples include codeine and anabolic steroids.
Schedule IV: This category includes drugs that have a low potential for abuse and dependence, and have accepted medical uses. Examples include Xanax and Ambien.
Schedule V: This category includes drugs that have a low potential for abuse and dependence, and have accepted medical uses. Examples include cough medicines that contain codeine.
The categories are differentiated based on the substance's medical uses, potential for abuse, and likelihood of causing dependence. The stricter regulations on Schedule I substances reflect the fact that they are considered to have a higher potential for harm and abuse, while Schedule V substances are considered to have the lowest potential for abuse and dependence. The schedules are used to guide the regulation of these substances, including their manufacture, distribution, and prescription.