The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) is a federal drug policy under which the manufacture, importation, possession, use, and distribution of certain substances are regulated. Enacted in 1970, it serves as the legal foundation for the government's fight against drug abuse and its consequences. The Act classifies drugs, substances, and certain chemicals used to make drugs into five distinct categories or schedules depending on the drug’s acceptable medical use and the drug’s abuse or dependency potential.
