What is a Schedule?

A schedule is a classification that drugs are given by the federal government based on their effectiveness. These schedules are used to determine the penalty for federal drug crimes, such as importing illegal substances. The placement of some drugs is controversial because the effectiveness of some drugs on Schedule II and III should arguably garner them a higher Schedule; however, they remain where they are because of other reasons, such as their popular use in medical practices.

Schedule I

This is the highest schedule and anyone found importing these substances will receive the harshest punishments. The criteria for a drug entering schedule I includes: a high potential for abuse, no acceptable medical use, and a lack of safety for the drug, even if used under medical supervision.

Even first time offenders can find themselves in serious trouble for committing a crime involving Schedule I drugs. With multiple charges, involving import, sale or possession, those convicted may receive life sentences. Popular drugs on this schedule include Heroin, PHP and LSD.

Schedule II

Schedule II drugs include serious narcotics with a high potential for abuse, a high potential for addiction and a current accepted medical use in the U.S. Drugs on this schedule are often available by prescription, and their distribution is often monitored by the Drug Enforcement Administration. They observe the distribution of the drugs carefully to ensure that none of them end up on the street. Common drugs on this schedule include cocaine, morphine, codeine and opium.

Schedule III

Schedule III drugs are similar to schedule II because they have the potential for drug abuse and are currently being used in the U.S. for medical purposes. The difference is that they develop low or moderate addictions, rather than the extreme physical and psychological dependence that results from drugs in Schedule II. These drugs are available through prescription and are also monitored to ensure they don’t end up on the street. Many types of steroids are included in Schedule III.

Schedule IV and V

Schedule IV and V drugs are used for medical purposes and have low potentials for abuse and a limited potential for addiction. They are often available through prescription or for hospital use. An example of a drug that might be on these schedules could be a cough syrup or painkiller with a small amount of codeine.