What is the signature feature of controlled substances?

The signature feature of controlled substances is that they have a high potential for abuse. This characteristic is fundamental to how controlled substances are classified and regulated under laws such as the Controlled Substances Act. The classification system categorizes drugs based on their potential for dependency and abuse, and those that are deemed to have a higher risk of abuse are placed in stricter schedules.

For example, substances like heroin and cocaine are classified as having a high potential for abuse, which restricts their availability and use. This classification is pivotal for law enforcement and public health policies, as it aims to mitigate the risks associated with drug abuse and protect public safety.

In contrast, while it's true that many controlled substances are legally prescribed, not all of them are, and this statement doesn't encompass the broad scope of substances that could potentially be abused. Similarly, the requirement for a search warrant is context-dependent and based on specific situations rather than a defining feature of controlled substances themselves. Moreover, the idea that controlled substances must be natural is incorrect, as many controlled substances are synthetic or semi-synthetic compounds. Therefore, the attribute of having a high potential for abuse uniquely captures the essence of why substances are regulated in this manner.