A controlled substance is a drug that’s use and dispersal is regulated by the federal government; these drugs are illegal to buy, sell or use, unless they are directly prescribed by a doctor or medical professional. Controlled substances are federally regulated due to their risk for addiction, abuse and physical harm. If you’re facing drug charges for a controlled substance, it’s important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Miami-Dade today.
The Controlled Substances Act organizes controlled substances into five groups, or schedules. These schedules are based on level of hazard they pose, their medical use, their risk for abuse, the potential for dependency and the threat the drug poses to society.
The schedules are as follows:
- Schedule I – These drugs have a high abuse risk, few or no medical advantages, and are considered unsafe. Drugs in this schedule include heroin, and LSD.
- Schedule II – These drugs have abuse potential with severe dependence risk, but they do have some medical uses. Drugs in this schedule include morphine, cocaine, PCP and methamphetamine.
- Schedule III –These drugs have abuse potential and moderate risks, but they have some medical utility. Drugs in this schedule include anabolic steroids, codeine, hydrocodone and some barbiturates.
- Schedule IV –These drugs have low abuse potential, plenty of medical use, and limited risks. Drugs in this schedule include Xanax and Valium.
- Schedule V –These drugs have little abuse potential or dependence risk, and they have plenty of medical uses. An example of a drug in this schedule is cough medicines with codeine in them.
Are you or a loved one facing drug charges for a controlled substance? Get help today. Call Falk & Ross at 877-663-5110 or 305-741-6997 to speak with a criminal defense attorney in Miami-Dade.