DEA Schedules I-V: Controlled Substances Quick Reference
A clear breakdown of DEA drug schedules I through V with examples, storage rules, and refill regulations every pharmacy technician needs to memorize for the PTCE.
Understanding the Five DEA Schedules
The Controlled Substances Act divides drugs into five schedules based on their medical use, abuse potential, and likelihood of dependence. Pharmacy technicians must know these schedules inside and out because they govern how medications are ordered, stored, dispensed, and documented.
Schedule I
These substances have high abuse potential and no currently accepted medical use in the United States. Examples include heroin, LSD, MDMA (ecstasy), and psilocybin. Schedule I drugs are not dispensed in community or hospital pharmacies. They are available only for approved research.
Schedule II (C-II)
High abuse potential with severe psychological or physical dependence. Examples include oxycodone (OxyContin), hydromorphone (Dilaudid), fentanyl, methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamine salts (Adderall), and morphine. C-II prescriptions require a written or electronic prescription with the prescriber's DEA number. No refills are allowed. Partial fills are permitted under specific conditions.
Schedule III (C-III)
Moderate to low abuse potential. Examples include acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol #3), testosterone, buprenorphine (Subutex), and ketamine. C-III prescriptions may be refilled up to 5 times within 6 months of the issue date.
Schedule IV (C-IV)
Lower abuse potential. Examples include alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), zolpidem (Ambien), tramadol, and carisoprodol (Soma). Same refill rules as C-III: up to 5 refills within 6 months.
Schedule V (C-V)
Lowest abuse potential among controlled substances. Examples include pregabalin (Lyrica), cough preparations with small amounts of codeine, and lacosamide (Vimpat). Refill rules mirror C-III and C-IV.
Storage and Recordkeeping
Schedule II substances must be stored in a securely locked cabinet or dispersed throughout non-controlled inventory to deter theft. All controlled substances require a perpetual inventory or biennial count. Any discrepancies must be documented and investigated. Theft or significant loss must be reported to the DEA on Form 106.
Review these schedules regularly and quiz yourself with PTCB flashcards to lock in the details before your exam.
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