DEA DEA Controlled Substance Schedules

Question 1

How many schedules of controlled substances does the DEA classify?

Accepted Answer

Five schedules (I-V), based on medical use, abuse potential, and dependence liability

Answer

The Controlled Substances Act classifies drugs into five schedules: Schedule I (highest abuse potential, no accepted medical use) through Schedule V (lowest abuse potential, accepted medical use).

Question 2

What characterizes a Schedule I controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

High abuse potential, no currently accepted medical use in the US, and lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision

Answer

Schedule I substances (heroin, LSD, ecstasy, marijuana at federal level) have high abuse potential, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the US, and lack accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

Question 3

What is the difference between Schedule II and Schedule III substances?

Accepted Answer

Schedule II has high abuse potential with accepted medical use; Schedule III has moderate abuse potential with accepted medical use

Answer

Schedule II (oxycodone, fentanyl, methamphetamine) has high abuse potential leading to severe dependence, while Schedule III (anabolic steroids, ketamine, some codeine combinations) has moderate abuse potential with less severe dependence risk.

Question 4

What prescribing restrictions apply to Schedule II controlled substances?

Accepted Answer

Written or electronic prescriptions required, no refills allowed, and limited supply (typically 90 days maximum)

Answer

Schedule II substances require a written or electronic prescription (no phone-in except emergencies), cannot be refilled (new prescription needed each time), and states may limit the quantity dispensed per prescription.

Question 5

What is the DEA registration number and who needs one?

Accepted Answer

A unique identifier required for practitioners, pharmacies, hospitals, and researchers who handle controlled substances

Answer

A DEA registration number is required for anyone who manufactures, distributes, dispenses, or conducts research with controlled substances, including physicians, pharmacists, hospitals, and researchers.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Practice Test

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Practice Test

DEA DEA Controlled Substance Schedules