If you are facing drug charges in Indiana, part of the charges you face and the penalties you could incur are based on what “schedule” the alleged drug at issue falls under. There are five drug schedules under Indiana law, based on the most dangerous drugs to the less dangerous drugs.
Schedule I drugs
Schedule I drugs are those with a great propensity for abuse and have no acceptable medical use. Some examples of Schedule I drugs include heroin, LSD and ecstasy.
Schedule II drugs
Schedule II drugs are those that have a great propensity for abuse but do have an acceptable medical use. The use of a Schedule II drug could lead to severe psychological or physical addiction. Some examples of Schedule II drugs include Vicodin, cocaine, methamphetamine and OxyContin.
Schedule III drugs
Schedule III drugs have a lesser propensity for abuse than Schedule I or Schedule II drugs. Schedule III drugs have an acceptable medical use. If a person abuses a Schedule III drugs it could cause moderate to low physical condition or high psychological addiction. Some examples of Schedule III drugs include Tylenol with codeine, ketamine and anabolic steroids.
Schedule IV drugs
Schedule IV drugs have a lesser propensity for abuse than Schedule III drugs. Schedule IV drugs have an acceptable medical use. If a person abuses a Schedule IV drug, it could cause limited physical or psychological addiction. Some examples of Schedule IV drugs include Xanax, Valium and Tramadol. Possession of large amounts of these drugs could lead to criminal charges.
Schedule V drugs
Schedule V drugs are those with an acceptable medical use and contain small amounts of codeine. Robitussin AC is an example of a Schedule V drug. Possession of large amounts of these drugs could lead to criminal charges.
Drug crimes in Indiana
As this shows, some drugs are more dangerous than others. Nevertheless, even seemingly simple medications such as cough syrup can be considered an illegal drug under the right circumstances. If you are accused of a drug crime you will want to make sure you have a clear understanding of the charges you face so you can make decisions that are in your best interests.