When it comes to prescription medications, drugs are often divided into two categories: controlled and non-controlled substances. This division largely depends on the drug's potential for misuse or dependence. This results in certain medications being more thoroughly regulated.

Non-controlled medications are generally prescribed for a variety of common conditions. These can include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, bacterial infections, and certain allergies. These types of medications are typically considered safe for general use under the direction of a healthcare provider and carry a lower risk of misuse or dependence.

For instance, antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, antihistamines for allergies, statins for managing cholesterol levels, and antihypertensives for controlling high blood pressure fall under the category of non-controlled medications. These medications can be prescribed without more advanced permissions, and refills are usually simple to process.

Controlled medications are regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) under the Controlled Substances Act. Medications classified as controlled substances have a higher chance of misuse and/or dependence, so they are closely monitored.

Common examples of controlled medications include drugs prescribed for ADHD, like Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin, as well as drugs often used in gender-affirming care, like testosterone. Other examples include opioids for pain management, benzodiazepines for anxiety, and certain sleep aids.

Prescribing, dispensing, and managing controlled medications require additional precautions. Providers and medical practices often need to hold special certifications or permissions to prescribe these medications, and prescriptions often have stricter regulations including limits on the quantity prescribed and refill rules.

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