Every state has its own way of classifying controlled dangerous substances. Each drug has a schedule based on the level of dangerousness.
In Iowa, the state classifies both the drugs and the ingredients used to make them.
CDS classification
The five schedules of drugs under Iowa law include:
- Schedule I drugs have no recognized medical purpose and are highly likely to result in abuse. Examples include heroin and other opiates.
- Schedule II drugs have a recognized but heavily restricted medical use and are likely to result in abuse. Examples include cocaine and opium.
- Schedule III drugs have medical use but can cause moderate physical dependence or high psychological dependence. Anabolic steroids and LSD are examples.
- Schedule IV drugs have medically accepted use but can cause moderate physical or psychological abuse. An example is butorphanol, a type of pain medication.
- Schedule V drugs have a low dependence likelihood and medical acceptance. They sometimes lead to methamphetamine use.
The schedule affects the potential penalties for charges of possession, sale, trafficking and manufacturing.
Penalties for possession
Possession is the most common drug charge. In Iowa, the first conviction of possession is a serious misdemeanor with potential fines up to over $1,500 and a year in jail. A second conviction is an aggravated misdemeanor and can result in a fine of over $6,000 and one year in jail. Three or more convictions can result in up to $7,500 and a five-year prison sentence. Iowa law also mandates an addition of 100 hours of community service for possession within 1,000 feet of a public park or a school.
Because some drugs are medically necessary, proof of a prescription can help you avoid charges.