Drug scheduling is a system used to classify drugs based on their potential for abuse, medical use, and safety. In the United States, the Controlled Substances Act categorizes drugs into five schedules, with Schedule I drugs being the most restricted due to high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, such as heroin and LSD. Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and include medications like cough preparations containing codeine. Each schedule has specific regulations regarding prescription, distribution, and use. For example, Schedule II drugs, like morphine and oxycodone, require a written prescription and cannot be refilled. Understanding drug scheduling helps healthcare professionals and law enforcement manage the risks associated with drug use and ensure public safety.