When it comes to dangerous substances versus controlled substances, some people do not know many details or understand the differences. It’s necessary to know the differences between the two because you may be facing possible legal charges. You may also be looking to identify the differences between the two, so you can help someone you love find treatment.
Simple and Straightforward Differences
The terms dangerous substances and controlled substances are often confused. Although both can be possessed with a prescription, there are distinctions between the two. It’s important to understand that all substances can be dangerous and lead to legal repercussions.
Dangerous Substances
The term “dangerous drug” has been defined as any drug unsafe for self-use, that is, not under the supervision of a doctor or other healthcare provider. A dangerous drug may be unscheduled, meaning that it is not controlled by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and not placed into one of five DEA schedules.
However, this doesn’t mean that if you are caught with a dangerous drug or a controlled substance, there will be no consequences. In some instances, individuals can even be charged for having the container that the substance came in.
Controlled Substances
Controlled substances can include prescribed medications with addictive properties as well as street drugs like cocaine or meth.
The Consequences of Substance Abuse
Both controlled and dangerous substances have consequences. For example, if you obtained a street drug prescribed for someone else, you could be charged with possession because the medication was not prescribed to you. On the other hand, if you can demonstrate that the medicine was prescribed to you by a physician, dentist, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner, the drug charges can be dropped.
Likewise, if you are found with street drugs considered dangerous and not prescribed to you, you could face charges and possible incarceration if found guilty. Contrary to what some think, many controlled substances are used in medical treatment: methadone is used to treat opioid use disorder, fentanyl is prescribed for pain, and stimulants are used to manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Substance Use Can Lead to Substance Use Disorder
It’s vital to understand that both dangerous and controlled substances can lead to drug abuse and potential substance use disorder (SUD). When individuals struggle with SUD, it’s essential to know that there is hope and help available. Both dangerous substances and controlled substances can be addictive, lead to unhealthy habits, and damage a person’s well-being. However, recovery from drug abuse is possible.
If you want to know more about dangerous and controlled substances or find help for substance use disorder, The Guest House is here to help. You don’t have to be afraid of getting help because treatment options are widely available. Talk to someone who understands you and your situation, knows all the ins and outs of dangerous and controlled substances, and can explain treatment options to you. For more information, call The Guest House today at (855) 483-7800. Our caring staff can help you overcome your addiction.