Under New Jersey law, drugs are regulated under what is known as Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS). These drugs are placed in categories based on their legality and dangerousness known as Schedules.
Schedule I is the highest level of danger and these drugs are not legal to sell or possess. An example of a Schedule I drug would be heroin. Schedule II drugs are legal within certain confines, but these drugs are known to be dangerous and highly addictive if abused and their possession is strictly regulated. Examples are cocaine and opiates. Schedule III drugs are commonly used medicines and treatments such as codeine, amphetamine and anabolic steroids. Schedule IV drugs include most of the those listed in Schedule III in smaller doses as well as sleep aids such as Ambien.
Schedule V is likely to be viewed as the most innocuous level of scheduling, as the list includes drugs legally prescribed in the U.S. that are deemed to have a low possibility of abuse and addiction in comparison to drugs in Schedule IV.
There are legal limits to the amount of opiates and opoids that can be present in a Schedule V drug. For example, there cannot be over 200 milligrams of codeine per 100 grams or 100 milliliters per dosage.
Robitussin AC contains codeine and is used to treat a cough and chest congestion linked with upper respiratory problems. Side effects can include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting. Since it is so readily available, it is easily obtainable, but not particularly dangerous even if the attempt is made to abuse it. Allergic reaction and side effects can include confusion, slowed heart rate, shortness of breath and fainting.
Lacosamide is listed as a Schedule V drug. It is used to treat patients with epilepsy by treating their seizures. The drug has been reported to cause euphoria in some patients making it a potentially recreational drug. The side effects can include depression, bewilderment, thoughts of injuring oneself, dizziness and pounding heartbeat.
Lotomil is used to treat diarrhea. It can also lead to euphoria and painkilling effects. Because it is an anti-diarrheal medication, it can cause constipation. Other side effects of this drug can be rapid heartbeat, seizures, dizziness, headache and blurred vision.
Pyrovalerone is a stimulant used to treat fatigue. It is also used as an antidepressant. This drug can provide rapid energy to its user making it a potentially abused drug. Withdrawal symptoms might include anger, aggressiveness, emotionality, nervousness, stomach problems and dizziness.
It must be remembered that all of these drugs have limits to their dosages when they’re in Schedule V and the determination of addictiveness and danger is linked to the dosage.
While drugs listed in Schedule V seem harmless and non-threatening because of their ease of availability and limited threat of dependence, the laws of New Jersey still apply when it comes to possession of them. If a person is holding these drugs without proper prescription, is under the influence of them, or is caught with an amount that is viewed as for sale and/or distribution by law enforcement, there can be serious consequences for the individual.
If you or a loved one have run into legal trouble involving a CDS listed under Schedule V in New Jersey, the law firm of Villani & DeLuca in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey can help you. The attorneys at Villani & DeLuca have vast experience in drug cases involving drugs viewed as a CDS and listed in Schedules I to V.
Simply because you or a loved one have been accused of a crime doesn’t mean that you have to accept that charges and penalties without understanding your legal rights under New Jersey law. If you have made a mistake with a Schedule V drug, you need to speak to an attorney who may be able to reduce the charges or get them dismissed entirely. If you have been arrested and charged with a crime involving a Schedule V drug in Monmouth County or Ocean County, in towns such as Asbury Park, Red Bank or Toms River, contact Villani & DeLuca for a consultation and case evaluation.
