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Do you understand Florida’s drug schedules?

On Behalf of | Nov 8, 2021 | Criminal Defense

When you are facing drug charges, they may include the schedule of the substance. The classification of a drug affects the way that legal officials view it, as well as the potential consequences.

The U.S. government uses a drug schedule to classify different substances. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, these categories explain what kind of medical use each drug has. Additionally, they consider how likely it is that people may abuse a substance or become dependent on it. The drug schedule divides substances into five categories.

Schedule 1

The Florida Legislature says that Schedule 1 substances are usually illegal. These drugs generally do not have a recognized medical purpose. Additionally, it is very likely that someone may abuse this kind of substance. Schedule 1 drugs include some of the following substances:

  • Fentanyl and fentanyl derivatives
  • Synthetic cannabinoids
  • LSD
  • Heroin

You typically face higher charges for offenses involving a Schedule 1 substance.

Schedule 2

Schedule 2 substances are also very likely to cause people to become dependent on them. However, legal professionals recognize that these drugs have a medical purpose. You can usually only have a Schedule 2 substance if a doctor has provided it to you for a specific medical reason. This category includes the following drugs:

  • Codeine
  • Opium extracts
  • Morphine
  • Oxycodone

You may face stiff penalties for having one of these substances outside of a medical context.

Schedule 3

Medical professionals routinely use Schedule 3 substances because of their recognized medical uses. While there is a possibility that some patients may abuse one of these drugs, it is much less likely. This classification includes the following substances:

  • Anabolic steroids
  • Ketamine
  • Drugs with low amounts of codeine

Substances classified in one of the first three schedules usually carry the most serious legal consequences. While Schedule 4 and 5 drugs have the potential to make someone dependent on them, the risk is much lower.

A drug crime can have a deep impact on your life. You may want to seek legal advice if you are facing drug charges.

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