Under which schedule is Ketamine categorized?

Ketamine is categorized as a Schedule 3N controlled substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act. Schedule 3 substances include drugs that have a potential for abuse that is less than that of Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 drugs and that have accepted medical uses in treatment. The 'N' designation indicates that the substance does not have a currently accepted medical use in the United States but is still considered to have some level of potential for abuse.

The classification of Ketamine in Schedule 3N is significant because it reflects its accepted medical applications, primarily in anesthesia and pain management, alongside its potential for misuse. This scheduling allows for regulation of its use, ensuring that it can be prescribed by healthcare providers while maintaining oversight to prevent abuse.

Understanding this classification is crucial for pharmacy practice, as pharmacists must be aware of the scheduling of medications to comply with state and federal laws regarding dispensing, prescribing, and record-keeping requirements.