Skip to main content

Controlled Substances Act

Meaning

A pivotal piece of federal legislation in the United States that regulates the manufacture, importation, possession, use, and distribution of certain drugs, substances, and chemicals. This Act categorizes these substances into five schedules based on their accepted medical use, potential for abuse, and safety or dependence liability. In clinical practice, this law dictates the prescribing and dispensing limitations for specific hormonal agents, particularly those with anabolic or stimulant properties. Adherence to this Act is mandatory for all prescribing clinicians and dispensing pharmacies.