What Are Schedule 5 Drugs?
Not all drugs are in the same classifications. Some can be more harmful than others, and some illicit drugs generally carry a bigger fine and penalty than others. Learning what schedule 5 drugs are is a smart way to begin understanding more about addiction and the road to recovery.
Exploring Drug Scheduling
There are five different classifications of drugs in the United States. These classification categories are known as schedules. Experts decide which schedule a drug belongs in by taking into account the potential harm of a drug, its medical benefit and its potential for abuse and addiction.
- Schedule 1 drugs — These drugs are the most harmful of all. They serve no medical purpose and are illegal in all forms and doses. Examples of schedule 1 drugs might include peyote, LSD or heroin.
- Schedule 2 drugs — While these drugs are also very dangerous, some have medical benefits. Prescription drug abuse often falls into the category of schedule 2 drugs, since opiate prescription pill addiction, OxyContin addiction, for example, can develop rapidly and cause devastating effects. These drugs have a high potential for abuse and can include methamphetamines, cocaine, and Ritalin.
- Schedule 3 drugs — There is an extreme medical risk with schedule 3 drugs. However, they’re classed as less damaging than schedule 2 drugs because they have a much lower potential for addiction. Examples of schedule 3 drugs include things like ketamine and anabolic steroids.
- Schedule 4 drugs — Schedule 4 drugs can be harmful, and there’s still some potential for abuse. However, drugs in this classification category are less likely to lead to dependence or addiction. Examples of schedule 4 drugs include Xanax, Valium, and Tramadol.
- Schedule 5 drugs — Drugs in this schedule are the least harmful. They might only be addictive if taken in huge quantities, or drug dealers may process them into more potent drugs that pose a greater risk to consumers.
The Definition of Schedule 5 Drugs
Schedule 5 drugs often have important medical uses. Most individuals who rely on drugs in this schedule do so for legitimate medical reasons. Many of the drugs in this category treat medical problems such as digestive distress, coughing or minor pain.
The biggest issue and risk with schedule 5 substances is that they can be manipulated. If these drugs are concentrated or processed to make them significantly more powerful, then they can carry a greater risk of harm, abuse, and addiction.
Examples of Schedule 5 Drugs
Many individuals are surprised to learn that their bathroom cabinet contains a few drugs classified as schedule 5 substances. Some of these medicines are available over the counter and most people don’t consider them dangerous.
A few examples of schedule 5 substances are:
- Lomotil (an antidiarrheal medication)
- Lyrica (used to treat muscle pain)
- Robitussin (used to treat coughing)
Drugs Classed as Schedule 5 Can Still Lead to Addiction
It’s important to understand what while some schedule 5 drugs don’t lead to any serious side effects, they should still be monitored carefully. Parents, for example, should take care to store these substances where young children and teens can't have access to them.
It’s also worth noting that individuals can foster a dependence on schedule 5 substances if they take these drugs incorrectly. If that happens, getting treatment immediately is key to preventing larger problems from forming.
If a larger problem does develop, finding a Scottsdale addiction treatment program early can help curb future, more dangerous addictions. In these cases, relying on professional treatment at Pinnacle Peak Recovery is a smart move. Contact us at 866-377-4761 today to find out more about drug schedules and how to begin fighting back against addiction.