What is a Controlled Dangerous Substance?

DEA Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS)

Many of the narcotics, synthetic steroids, depressants, and stimulants manufactured for legitimate medical use are subject to abuse and have, therefore, been brought under legal control.

Researchers authorized to possess and administer CDS may do so under a valid DEA license and only with prior approval of EHS; authorized personnel must comply with all applicable regulatory requirements relating to drug security, control, disposal and recordkeeping.

The DEA and its state affiliates (Department of Consumer Affairs, Drug Control Unit in NJ) categorize CDS materials into or 'schedule' categories based on the likelihood of diversion, mostly due to abuse and addiction prevalence. Materials fall into one of five schedules, from highest control to least;

Schedule I No accepted medical use, high potential for abuse
(e.g., heroin, methamphetamine)
Schedule II High potential for abuse, severe psychological or physical dependence
(e.g., cocaine, oxycodone)
Schedule III Potential for abuse less than Schedule I & II
(e.g., ketamine, and anabolic steroids)
Schedule IV Low potential for abuse relative to Schedule III
(e.g., midazolam, diazepam)
Schedule V Consist primarily of mixtures containing limited quantities of other scheduled material
(e.g., Codeine preparations - 200 mg/100 ml, Motofen)
Campus Research Material License - Life Sciences Complex
  • Princeton University research and animal care are administered under a single, campus-wide license.
  • EHS is responsible for maintaining the university's CDS license
  • License renewal occurs annually and is directed by EHS

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