Gabapentin remains a Schedule V controlled substance at the federal level — but several states have moved ahead with stricter scheduling. For pharmacists practicing across state lines, this creates significant compliance complexity.
States that have scheduled gabapentin
Kentucky: Schedule V since 2017 — the first state to act. Prescription monitoring program (PMP) reporting required.
Tennessee: Schedule V since 2017. Refills allowed per federal Schedule V rules but subject to state PMP reporting.
Michigan: Schedule 5 since 2019.
Virginia: Schedule VI (Virginia-specific schedule) since 2019.
North Dakota, West Virginia, Wyoming, Minnesota, Connecticut: Various scheduling actions between 2017 and 2023.
What this means for dispensing
In states where gabapentin is scheduled, pharmacists must: report dispensing to the state PMP, follow prescription requirements for the applicable schedule, and be aware of interstate prescribing restrictions that apply to scheduled substances.
Compounding implications
Compounding gabapentin in states where it’s scheduled requires compliance with state controlled substance compounding rules. Verify requirements with your state board before compounding gabapentin for patients in scheduling states.
Federal status
As of May 2026, gabapentin remains unscheduled at the federal level. DEA has previously reviewed gabapentin for scheduling but has not taken action. State laws control in scheduling states.