The Most Common Types of Drugs Trafficked in the US and How to Defend Against Charges

Florida law categorizes controlled substances into different schedules based on their potential for abuse, accepted medical use, and the severity of potential dependence. The schedules range from Schedule I to Schedule V, with Schedule I substances being considered the most dangerous and Schedule V substances having the lowest potential for abuse. Your Tampa drug defense lawyer will understand that each schedule has its own defense strategy needs, as different punishments vary in severity based on the schedule degree.

Schedule I: This category includes drugs with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. Examples of Schedule I substances include heroin, LSD, MDMA (ecstasy), and marijuana (although there are exceptions for medical marijuana).

Schedule II: These substances have a high potential for abuse but may have accepted medical uses with severe restrictions. They can lead to severe physical or psychological dependence. Examples of Schedule II drugs include cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone, fentanyl, and morphine.

Schedule III: This schedule includes substances that have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule I or II drugs and has accepted medical uses. Abuse of Schedule III substances can lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence. Examples include certain steroids, ketamine, and hydrocodone.

Schedule IV: These substances have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule III drugs, limited risk of physical or psychological dependence, and accepted medical uses. Examples of Schedule IV drugs include benzodiazepines (such as diazepam and alprazolam), zolpidem, and tramadol.

Schedule V: This is the least restrictive schedule and contains substances with the lowest potential for abuse. They have accepted medical uses and limited risk of dependence, both physically and psychologically. Examples include cough preparations with codeine, over-the-counter medications containing low doses of certain opioids, and certain anti-diarrheal medications.