Anabolic steroids are classified under which controlled substance schedule under federal law?

Anabolic steroids are classified as Schedule III controlled substances under federal law. This classification is based on their potential for abuse, which, while lower than substances classified as Schedule I or II, still poses a risk. Schedule III drugs are defined as having a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence. Anabolic steroids can be prescribed by a doctor for certain medical conditions, but they are also commonly abused for muscle growth and athletic performance enhancement. The law reflects a recognition of these substances’ medicinal uses alongside their potential for misuse.

Other schedules address substances with varying levels of abuse potential and medicinal use. For instance, Schedule I drugs are deemed to have a high potential for abuse with no accepted medical use, while Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse but are accepted for certain medical treatments, often with strict regulations. Schedule IV drugs have an even lower potential for abuse. In contrast, Schedule III allows for more flexible medical use while still imposing legal controls.