How to memorize controlled substance medications and their schedules

The Georgia MPJE will have many questions regarding the rules and regulations for controlled substances. One of the most daunting tasks is memorizing the schedule of each controlled medication. We are lucky at the moment in Georgia that there is no disagreement between the federal and state listings, however this remains a huge challenge.

The best way to prepare for this, and avoid spending too much time and energy, is to simply remember the main drug classes that fall under each heading:   

• CII:       High potency opioids, ADHD drugs, cocaine
• CIII:      Anabolic steroids, ketamine, Codeine < 1.8g per 100ml or < 90mg per dose
• CIV:      Benzos, sedatives, anesthetics, sleep aids, weight loss, tramadol
• CV:       PSE and other exempt OTCs, Lyrica 

You’ll still have to know the brand and generic names for meds in these classes, but this process is much more efficient than reading through the controlled substance act. In addition to the drugs, you’ll also need to know the logic behind the different schedules. This again can be simplified as such: 

• CI: No accepted medical use (*but still used for research purposes)
• CII: Accepted medical use with high potential for abuse, leading to severe psychological and physical dependence
• CIII: Accepted medical use with lesser potential for abuse, leading to moderate or low psychological and physical dependence
• CIV: Accepted medical use with low potential for abuse, leading to limited psychological and physical dependence
• CV: Accepted medical use with low potential for abuse relative to CIV, leading to limited dependence relative to CIV 

Beyond these items, my final suggestion would be to become well versed in chapter 480-22 of the GA Board of Pharmacy Rules (https://rules.sos.ga.gov/gac/480-22), and also take a look at the DEA Pharmacist manual if you have time (https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/manuals/manuals.html).

 Good luck! And if you want a comprehensive review please check out www.GaPharmacyLawReview.com