[2] The SUSMP classifies drugs and poisons into different Schedules signifying the degree of control recommended to be exercised over their availability to the public.

Although each State and Territory has its own laws, the vast majority of medicines and poisons are classified according to the SUSMP to achieve uniform national regulation.

Examples: Schedule 4 (S4) drugs and poisons, otherwise known as prescription only medicines, are substances and preparations for therapeutic use that – The price of many Schedule 4 substances are subsidized by the Australian Government through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), when prescribed by an authorised prescriber.

In addition, in some states, all drugs on schedule 8 require a doctor to have an S8 permit before prescribing treatment.

For example, in NSW the prescribing of Schedule 8 CNS stimulant medication (e.g., methylphenidate, dexamfetamine) requires authorisation from the NSW Ministry of Health (Pharmaceutical Services) and is generally restricted to specialists, such as paediatricians and psychiatrists.

A GP (General Practitioner) cannot initiate the treatment, although they can prescribe in very limited circumstances, e.g. co-prescribing on behalf of the specialist; and in rural areas, if the patient has been diagnosed with ADHD, a GP may apply for the authority to prescribe.

Patients who may require Schedule 8 CNS stimulant medication should be referred to a specialist for assessment.

Examples: Schedule 9 (S9) drugs and poisons are substances and preparations that, by law, may only be used for research purposes.

The sale, distribution, use, and manufacture of such substances without a permit is strictly prohibited by law.

To illustrate, diethylene glycol is prohibited by law, but at a concentration of 0.25% it is allowed to be an ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash.