Controlled substances: human chorionic gonadotropin.

Assembly Member Patterson's proposal to remove human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) from California's Schedule III controlled substances list would alter the regulatory framework for this hormone. Under current law, hCG falls within Schedule III of the California Uniform Controlled Substances Act, with exceptions only for licensed veterinarians and their designated agents using it for veterinary purposes.

The measure modifies Section 11056 of the Health and Safety Code by eliminating hCG from the list of Schedule III substances, which currently includes various stimulants, depressants, narcotic drugs, and anabolic steroids. This reclassification would remove the restrictions on prescription, possession, sale, and use that accompany Schedule III status.

The change maintains existing classifications for other Schedule III substances while specifically addressing hCG's status. The measure requires majority approval and fiscal committee review but includes no appropriations or local program requirements. Other substances in Schedule III, including anabolic steroids, stimulants, and various narcotic drugs, remain subject to their current controls and restrictions.