2-10. THE FIVE SCHEDULES OF THE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ACT
The drugs specifically covered in the Controlled Substances Act are classified
into five schedules according to their abuse potential.
a. Schedule I Substances. Drugs in this schedule have no accepted medical
use in the United States. Some examples of drugs in this schedule are heroin,
marijuana, LSD, peyote, and mescaline psilocybin.
b. Schedule II Substances. Drugs in this schedule have a high abuse potential
with severe psychic or physical dependence liability. This schedule includes both
narcotic and non-narcotic substances. Some examples of Schedule II substances are
cocaine hydrochloride, dextroamphetamine, meperidine hydrochloride, morphine,
pentobarbital, secobarbital methylphenidate, and oxycodone hydrochloride. See Table
3-1 (Page 3-11) for other drugs in this schedule.
NOTE:
In the Army, ethyl alcohol and alcoholic liquors (including wine
and beer) - although they are not included in any schedule of the
Controlled Substances Act - will be received, accounted for, and
dispensed in the same manner as Schedule II substances. Lesson 3,
Section II, of this subcourse contains specific information on this matter.
c. Schedule III Substances. Drugs in this schedule have an abuse potential
less than those in Schedules I and II. Examples of Schedule III substances are
thiopental sodium, and paregoric. See Table 3-1 for other drugs in this schedule.
d. Schedule IV Substances. Drugs in this category have an abuse potential
less than the drugs listed in Schedule III. Some examples of drugs in this schedule are
chlordiazepoxide, propoxyphene napsalate, flurazepam, diazepam, meprobamate, and
clonazepam. See Table 3-1 for other drugs in this schedule.
e. Schedule V Substances. Drugs in this schedule have an abuse potential
less than the drugs listed in Schedule IV. Some examples of drugs in this schedule are
diphenoxylate tablets and elixir of terpin hydrate with codeine (Table 3-1).
2-11. IMPORTANCE OF THE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ACT TO ARMY
PHARMACY PRACTICE
Drugs have been used, misused, and abused for many years. In Army pharmacy
practice, laws and regulations pertaining to the dispensing of controlled substances
have been established by military and Federal authorities. Strict adherence to these
laws and regulations protects you and the patients you serve. Failure to follow these
laws and regulations can result in severe penalties.
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