How are different types of drugs classified under federal law?
All controlled substances are divided into five “schedules.” Schedule V (5) drugs are generally not considered very dangerous, have low addiction or abuse potential, and is an accepted medical treatment. Cough medicine is a Schedule V drug. Schedule IV drugs are considered mildly addictive when abused. Schedule III drugs, such as steroids, Vicodin, or ketamine, can be used for medical treatments and can cause moderate physical addiction and high psychological addiction. Schedule II drugs are easily abused, are highly addictive, but can be legally prescribed. Cocaine, methamphetamine, and morphine are all Schedule II drugs. Schedule I drugs have no accepted medical use and have a high potential for abuse. Some of these substances are heroin, MDMA (ecstasy), peyote, and LSD. Controversially, marijuana is also a Schedule I drug under federal law. Crimes involving Schedule I drugs have extremely harsh penalties, even for a first time offender.
