Ace the Colorado QMAP Challenge 2025 – Conquer the Caregiving Frontier!

Controlled substances include a wide range of drugs that are regulated by law due to their potential for abuse and addiction. This category encompasses narcotics, which are primarily pain-relieving medications; depressants, which can slow down the central nervous system; stimulants, which can increase alertness and energy; and hallucinogens, which alter perception and consciousness. Each of these classes of drugs has varying degrees of restriction depending on their risk for misuse, leading to their classification as controlled substances.

Narcotics alone do not represent the entire spectrum of controlled substances, as they are just one category within a broader classification. Over-the-counter medications and vitamins/supplements do not typically fall under controlled substances, as these are generally considered safe when used as directed and do not possess a significant potential for addiction or abuse. This distinction highlights the importance of recognizing the specific types of substances that carry restrictions, reflecting the safety and health considerations in their regulation.