Controlled substance

A controlled substance is a drug or chemical whose manufacture, distribution, possession, or use is regulated by law due to its potential for abuse or addiction. These substances are classified into schedules based on their medical use and potential for harm, ranging from those with high abuse potential and no accepted medical use (like heroin) to those with accepted medical uses but potential for abuse (like prescription opioids). The regulations aim to prevent misuse while allowing access for legitimate medical purposes. Examples include narcotics, stimulants, and some sedatives.