Drug Classifications Chart

The six main drug classifications by effect on the body include stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, opioids, inhalants, and cannabis. These categories help clinicians understand a drug’s mechanism of action, therapeutic role, and possible side effects.

Class 1 (Schedule I) drugs like heroin have no currently accepted medical use and high potential for abuse, while Class 2 (Schedule II drugs) such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or oxycodone have accepted medical uses but still pose severe psychological and physical dependence risks. Class 3 (Schedule III drugs) and Class 4 (Schedule IV drugs) include codeine, cough suppressant combinations, and approved medication with moderate to low abuse potential.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) enforces the Controlled Substances Act, ensuring that prescription drugs and illicit substances are regulated based on medical value, dependency potential, and abuse risk. It plays a vital role in protecting public health and overseeing legal compliance for human consumption of controlled active ingredients.