The United States has established rigorous guidelines to ensure people receive the correct dose and the proper quantity of prescription drugs. After all, with the current problems with opioid addiction and marijuana use drifting through our country, officials are more than happy to place restrictions on potentially dangerous or illegal substances. Chances are when you visit your doctor’s office or a pharmacy, you may hear the term “scheduling.” Have you ever thought about what that means for you and the people you know? If you don’t already know, let’s take a closer look and see.
Simply put, scheduling is the process of determining which medicines, drugs, and toxins must be controlled and which ones do not have to be. In other words, certain substance falls into a specific “schedule” based on what level of threat each could pose to patients. Less dangerous medications typically require less control than higher grade drugs. Please note that illegal substances still fall under a higher category of schedule, even though these drugs are not regulated by pharmacies or the DEA.
Based on DEA guidelines, the following schedules have been set for drugs and chemicals:
- Schedule I: drugs not currently regulated by the DEA (ex: heroin, LSD, ecstasy, meth, and peyote)
- Schedule II: drugs that have a high potential for addiction and chemical dependency(ex: Vicodin, cocaine, methamphetamine, Demerol, OxyContin, Adderall, and Ritalin)
- Schedule III: drugs with a mild potential for addiction and chemical dependence (ex: Tylenol-codeine, anabolic steroids, and testosterone)
- Schedule IV: drugs that have a low potential for addiction and chemical dependency (ex: Xanax, Darvocet, Valium, Ativan, Ambien, and Tramadol)
- Schedule V: drugs with an extremely low potential for addiction and chemical dependency that may contain traces of narcotics (ex: Robitussin AC, Lomotil, and Lyrica)
Likewise, some medications may fall under the category of “not scheduled.” These may include over the counter medications (excluding Sudafed) that do not require a prescription. Keep in mind, however, that certain illegal drugs fall into this category as well.
For a full listing of controlled substances, review the official DEA list.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to add and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
