What is considered a 'controlled substance'?

A 'controlled substance' refers to any substance that is regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) under the Controlled Substances Act. This categorization is critical for several reasons, including the potential for abuse and dependence, which necessitate strict monitoring and regulation. These substances are classified into schedules based on their medical use, potential for abuse, and safety or dependency risk, which is essential for maintaining public health and safety.

The reason for this regulatory framework is to prevent misuse and to control the distribution and usage of drugs that can lead to addiction or other significant health issues. Therefore, substances that fall under this definition require careful handling and can only be dispensed with a proper prescription, if applicable.

In contrast, over-the-counter medications, common household items, and nutritional supplements do not typically fall under this stringent regulatory category, making them less restricted and more accessible to the public without the need for a prescription or strict monitoring by authorities.