Controlled substances are drugs that are regulated by law because of their potential for abuse or addiction. These substances are classified into schedules, based on their potential for abuse and dependence, as well as their medical value.
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has five schedules of controlled substances, with Schedule I drugs having the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, and Schedule V drugs having the lowest potential for abuse and accepted medical use.
The following are some examples of controlled substances in each schedule:
Schedule I: heroin, LSD, marijuana, ecstasy, peyote
Schedule II: cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone, fentanyl, Adderall
Schedule III: anabolic steroids, ketamine, codeine combined with aspirin or Tylenol, some barbiturates
Schedule IV: Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Ambien, Tramadol
Schedule V: cough syrups containing codeine, some anti-diarrheal medications
Forensic scientists play a critical role in the analysis and identification of controlled substances. They use a variety of techniques to identify and quantify controlled substances, such as gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. This information is used by law enforcement agencies and courts to prosecute drug crimes and ensure that the appropriate penalties are applied.