US DEA Moves Cannabis to Lower Risk Category

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has classified cannabis as a Schedule III substance. This means that the federal government no longer considers the substance to be highly risky, but rather less hazardous than, for example, cocaine or heroin. According to CNNBS.nl, this is an adjustment to the so-called Controlled Substances Act, which has determined the legal status of drugs since the 1970s.

Although the reclassification is often cited as an important step, little is expected to change in practice for the time being. Cannabis remains prohibited under federal law, even though an increasing number of US states are implementing their own rules for medicinal or recreational use. The impact on research, trade, and criminal prosecution remains unclear for now.

The DEA uses five categories for regulated substances. Schedule I is for substances with no recognized medical application and a high risk of abuse, such as heroin. Schedule III applies to substances with a moderate risk and approved medical applications. Other examples include certain painkillers and anabolic steroids.

This report is a summary based on the mentioned source and is not medical advice. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist in case of complaints.