When a person is charged with a drug crime, the severity of the criminal punishments can vary depending on the type of drugs in possession. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) determines the severity of drugs and whether the substances can be used for medical reasons.
Under the CSA, substances are categorized under drug schedules. There are five total drug schedules. Here is what you should know:
Schedule V substances
Schedule V substances have the lowest potential for substance abuse. Many Schedule V substances can be bought over the counter without any kind of prescription. Some of the most common types of Schedule V drugs include antidiarrheal and cough medicine. While criminal charges can still be severe for possession of a Schedule V substance, potential punishments may be the least severe.
Schedule IV substances
The second least addictive substances are Schedule IV drugs. Schedule IV substances can include Xanax, Valium, Ambien and Tramadol. These substances can be bought over the counter or with a prescription.
Schedule III substances
Schedule III substances, including ketamine, testosterone and anabolic steroids, are mildly addictive. Typically, these substances can only be obtained with a prescription.
Schedule II substances
The second most addictive substances include Schedule II substances, including Ritalin, Adderall and fentanyl. These substances may only be used in hospitals and can occasionally be obtained with a prescription.
Schedule I substances
Schedule I substances include the most addictive kinds of drugs. There are no legal medical uses for Schedule I substances. Heroin, LSD, ecstasy and peyote are all classified as Schedule I substances. Possession, distribution or manufacture of Schedule I substances can lead to the harshest criminal punishments.
If you are facing criminal drug charges, you can reach out for professional legal guidance and learn about your defense options.