Drug schedules explained: US legal status

The US drug schedules

1. I
   Schedule INo currently accepted medical use in the US and a high potential for abuse. These drugs cannot be prescribed; they can be used only in DEA-registered research.18 on DoseUses
2. II
   Schedule IIAccepted medical use but a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.21 on DoseUses
3. III
   Schedule IIIAccepted medical use, with moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.14 on DoseUses
4. IV
   Schedule IVAccepted medical use, with a low potential for abuse relative to Schedule III.25 on DoseUses
5. V
   Schedule VAccepted medical use, with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV. Includes some low-dose codeine cough preparations.6 on DoseUses
6. NC
   Not federally controlledNot listed in any federal schedule. Some are prescription medicines, some are veterinary drugs, and some are sold without regulation. States may control them, and federal scheduling may be pending.22 on DoseUses

Source: DEA Diversion Control Division.

All 106 substances