What is considered a controlled substance under federal law?

Under federal law, a controlled substance is categorized specifically as a medication that has a high potential for abuse, which can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. This classification is crucial because such substances are regulated more strictly than non-controlled medications due to the risks associated with their misuse.

The schedule system established by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) groups drugs into categories based on their potential for abuse, with Schedule I substances being the most restricted. Examples of controlled substances include opioids, stimulants, and certain sedatives, all of which fall under this high potential for abuse criterion.

In contrast, while prescription medications can include controlled and non-controlled substances, not all prescriptions meet the criteria to be classified as controlled substances. Similarly, narcotics, while often controlled, do not encompass all substances with potential abuse. Lastly, over-the-counter medications are not classified as controlled substances unless they contain ingredients that fit specified regulations, which is typically not the case for standard OTC products. Thus, the focus on medications with a high potential for abuse accurately encapsulates the essence of what defines a controlled substance under federal law.