How to Find Information on What Drugs Fall Into Schedule 5

Under current U.S. law, drugs are classified according to their potential for addiction and abuse. This classification is for manufacturing and dispensing purposes and helps doctors, pharmacists and drug companies keep better control over these drugs. The current system of classification was created by the 1970 Controlled Substances Act, which created 5 schedules into which drugs fall. Schedule 1 drugs are the most addictive while schedule 5 drugs are the least so. If you have been arrested or are facing charges stemming from violations involving Schedule 5 drugs, you will want to know what drugs fall into this schedule.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Local telephone directory
• Telephone

Instructions

What Drugs Fall Into Schedule 5?

1. Ask the experts. The Drug Enforcement Agency has complete information on the drugs that fall into Schedule 5 on the Drug Scheduling page of their Web site (see Resources below). Only a small number of drugs fall into Schedule 5, and although these substances are controlled, they are considered minimally addictive.

2. Get legal help. After consulting the Drug Enforcement Agency's list of drug schedules, call an attorney. An attorney can provide you with additional information on Schedule 5 drug offenses, and can defend you in court if you are facing charges. Check your local telephone directory for attorneys specializing in criminal law or get in touch with the American Bar Association (see Resources below) for help finding one in your area.

3. Seek more information on drug addiction or abuse from a support or advocacy group like Narcotics Anonymous (see Resources below). People who abuse over-the-counter cold medicines or other minimally addictive drugs like those in Schedule 5 often have other drug-related problems. Support groups can provide nonjudgmental assistance in overcoming such problems.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are facing criminal charges involving Schedule 5 drugs, you have certain rights under the U.S. Constitution. You have the right not to be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment and you have the right to a public trial by a jury of your peers.