The drug classification system in England categorizes drugs into three classes: A, B, and C, based on their potential for harm.
Here's a breakdown of the classifications:
- Class A: Considered the most dangerous drugs with the highest potential for harm.
- Class B: Drugs deemed to have a medium potential for harm.
- Class C: Drugs considered to have the lowest potential for harm.
The penalties for possession, supply, and production of drugs vary depending on the class of the drug. Class A drugs generally carry the most severe penalties, while Class C drugs carry the least severe.
Here's a more detailed look at each class with examples:
-
Class A Drugs: These are considered the most harmful and include drugs such as:
- Cocaine
- Ecstasy (MDMA)
- Heroin
- LSD (Acid)
- Magic Mushrooms (containing psilocybin)
- Crystal Meth (Methamphetamine)
-
Class B Drugs: These drugs are considered less harmful than Class A drugs. Examples include:
- Codeine
- Ketamine
- Cannabis
- 'Spice' (Synthetic cannabinoids)
-
Class C Drugs: These are considered the least harmful drugs among the three classes. Examples include:
- Anabolic Steroids
- Minor Tranquillisers (e.g., some benzodiazepines)
- GHB (Gamma-hydroxybutyrate)
- Khat
It is important to note that this classification system is subject to change, and the specific drugs included in each class may be updated based on new evidence and scientific understanding.
