Skip to main content

DEA Controlled Substance Rules

Meaning

The DEA Controlled Substance Rules are federal regulations established by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration that govern the manufacturing, distribution, prescribing, and dispensing of medications categorized by their potential for abuse or dependence. These regulations classify substances into schedules, from Schedule I with high abuse potential and no accepted medical use, to Schedule V with lower abuse potential. Adherence to these rules is mandatory for all registrants involved in handling controlled substances.