Controlled substances are classified according to schedules. Each of these schedules has specific points that play a part in the classification. A person who is facing drug charges should know what schedule the drug he or she is charged with having is in so that he or she can know how to combat the charges.
There are five schedules used to divide controlled substances. These are numbered from I to V. Schedule I is the most tightly controlled. The substances in this schedule are said to have no medicinal value. Heroin and marijuana are included in this schedule.
Schedule II includes methadone and morphine. It comprises drugs that have some medicinal value and a high instance of abuse. Schedule III drugs include Tylenol with codeine and Vicodin. These drugs have medicinal value with a low to moderate instance of abuse. Schedule IV drugs include those that have medical value with a lower chance of abuse. These include Xanax and Versed. Schedule V drugs, including cough syrup with codeine, have a very low chance of abuse.
The drugs that are listed in the Controlled Substances Act that have a medicinal value can only be in a person’s possession if that person has a valid prescription for the substance. Without a valid prescription, you could face charges if you have any of these in your possession.
If drug charges were levied against you, be sure to carefully consider any options that you are presented with. This might include alternative sentencing options or plea deals. Think about how each option you have might impact your future, such as your employability.
Source: FindLaw, “What Is a Controlled Substance?,” accessed Feb. 10, 2017