How are drugs categorized in Las Vegas?
In the state of Nevada, narcotics and controlled substances are classified under five different drug schedules. The Nevada drug schedules are based upon such factors as the drugs’ potential for abuse, medical use and acceptance, and the effects of abuse.
Schedule I Drugs
Schedule I drugs are substances that have been determined to have:
- A high potential for abuse
- No accepted use for medical treatment in the United States or are unsafe for use in treatment
Common Schedule I substances include:
- Methamphetamine
- Heroin
- GHB
- Ecstasy (MDMA)
- PCP
- LSD
- Mescaline
- Peyote
- Marijuana (Marijuana is categorized as Schedule I even though medical marijuana is legal; there are specific laws and penalties for marijuana offenses in Nevada.)
Schedule II Drugs
Schedule II drugs are substances that have been found to:
- Have a high potential for abuse
- Have accepted use for medical treatment or accepted use for medical treatment with severe restrictions
- Lead to severe physical or psychological dependence if abused
Schedule II substances include:
- Cocaine
- Codeine
- Hydrocodone
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
- Methadone
- Opium
- Barbiturates
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
Schedule III Drugs
Schedule III drugs are substances that have been found to:
- Have less potential for abuse than Schedule I and II drugs
- Have a currently accepted use for medical treatment
- Lead to moderate or low physical or psychological dependence if abused
Common Schedule III drugs include:
- Anabolic steroids
- Ketamine
- Nalorphine
- Testosterone
- Synthetic Dronabinol
Schedule IV Drugs
Schedule IV drugs are substances that have been found to:
- Have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule III drugs
- Have a currently accepted use for medical treatment
- Cause limited physical or psychological dependence if abused
Schedule IV Drugs include:
- Ambien
- Valium
- Xanax
- Rohypnol
- Clonazepam
- Tranquilizers
- Sedatives
Schedule V Drugs
Schedule V drugs are substances that are found to:
- Have less potential for abuse than Schedule IV drugs
- Have an accepted use for medical treatment
- Cause limited physical or psychological dependence relative to Schedule IV drugs
Common Schedule V drugs include:
- Substances with small amounts of codeine, such as cough suppressants
- Substances with small amounts of dihydrocodeine
- Substances with small amounts of opium
- Substances with small amounts of difenoxin
- Substances with small amounts of ethylmorphine
Need a lawyer for drug charges in Las Vegas?
If you were arrested and charged with a drug offense, it is important to obtain the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Las Vegas as soon as possible. Our team at De Castroverde Law Group has defended clients against all types of drug charges, and we can represent your rights and interests before the courts.
Contact a Las Vegas drug crimes lawyer from our firm today to discuss your charges and to learn how our seasoned representation can benefit your case.