Anabolic steroids are included in which medication schedule?

Anabolic steroids are classified as Schedule III controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States. This classification indicates that they have a recognized medical use but also carry a potential for abuse, which may lead to psychological or physical dependence. Schedule III substances are considered to have a lower abuse potential compared to Schedule I and II substances.

The Schedule III classification helps to regulate the distribution, prescribing, and dispensing of anabolic steroids to ensure they are used safely and responsibly. For instance, while anabolic steroids can aid in treating specific medical conditions like delayed puberty or muscle wasting in certain diseases, the potential for misuse—particularly among athletes and bodybuilders—has led to strict guidelines surrounding their prescription and use.

The other schedules do not apply as accurately to anabolic steroids. Schedule II substances, for example, have a high potential for abuse and are subject to strict regulations, while Schedule IV and V substances are considered to have even lower abuse potential and associated risks. Thus, recognizing anabolic steroids as Schedule III substances is consistent with their medical applications and their potential for misuse.