Controlled Substances Scheduling

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Schedule I substances have a high potential for abuse and no approved medical use in the U.S. Examples include heroin, mescaline, and LSD.

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Schedule I substances are illegal, and providers cannot prescribe them. Cannabis (marijuana) is included in Schedule I, even though it is legal for medical use with a prescription in many states.

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States can add substances to a schedule as a matter of state law, even if not included in federal scheduling.

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The federal government does not federally prosecute individuals who use cannabis in states where it is allowed.

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Schedule II substances have a high potential for abuse and are considered dangerous.

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These substances can lead to psychological and physical dependence. Examples include morphine, methadone, oxycodone, hydromorphone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and amphetamine.

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Schedule II drugs are approved for medical use but require strict prescription regulations.

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Prescriptions must be signed by hand unless electronic transmission is allowed by state and federal rules.

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Schedule II substances must be stored securely.

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They must be kept in a safe or steel cabinet of substantial construction. If the cabinet is less than 750 pounds, it must be mounted or secured to prevent theft.

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Schedule III substances have moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.

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Examples include ketamine, anabolic steroids, acetaminophen with codeine, and buprenorphine.

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Schedule IV substances have a low potential for abuse and dependence.

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Examples include tramadol and benzodiazepines such as diazepam, alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, and clonazepam.

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Schedule V substances contain limited quantities of narcotics.

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These are often used for antidiarrheal, antitussive, and analgesic purposes. Examples include diphenoxylate with atropine, guaifenesin with codeine, and pregabalin.

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Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substances have restrictions on refills.

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They may not be filled or refilled more than 6 months after the prescription date and may not be refilled more than five times in 6 months.

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An alphabetical list of all controlled substances and their CSA schedule numbers can be found at the resources section of the Office of Diversion Control website.

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