Controlled Substance Policy

When a drug is classified as a controlled substance, we prominently display its DEA schedule on the drug monograph page. The DEA classifies controlled substances into five schedules:

• Schedule I: High potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use (not prescribed).
• Schedule II: High potential for abuse, accepted medical use with severe restrictions (e.g., oxycodone, amphetamine).
• Schedule III: Moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence (e.g., buprenorphine, ketamine).
• Schedule IV: Low potential for abuse relative to Schedule III (e.g., benzodiazepines, zolpidem).
• Schedule V: Lowest potential for abuse among controlled substances (e.g., certain cough preparations with codeine).

For the official and complete list of controlled substances, see the DEA Controlled Substances Schedules.

Content about controlled substances on PrescriptionDrugs.org follows these additional editorial guidelines:

• No dosage escalation guidance: We provide the dosage information from the FDA-approved label but do not provide instructions on how to increase doses beyond what is prescribed. Dosage changes should only be made by a prescribing healthcare provider.
• Dependence and withdrawal information: Drug monographs for controlled substances include information about the potential for physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms, as documented in the FDA label and clinical literature.
• Abuse potential transparency: We clearly state the abuse potential of controlled substances as classified by the DEA and documented in FDA labeling. This information is presented factually, not in a way that encourages misuse.
• Safe disposal: Pages for controlled substances include information about safe disposal methods, including DEA take-back programs.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, help is available:

PrescriptionDrugs.org is an information resource, not a healthcare provider. We do not:

• Prescribe or recommend controlled substances
• Provide instructions for obtaining controlled substances
• Offer guidance on using controlled substances recreationally
• Provide dosage titration advice beyond what appears in the FDA-approved label

If you have questions about your medication, consult your prescribing healthcare provider or pharmacist.