Which term refers to a substance with a chemical structure similar to a controlled substance?

The term that aptly describes a substance with a chemical structure similar to a controlled substance is "Controlled Substance Analogue." This classification is significant in the context of drug regulation because it identifies substances that are designed to mimic the effects of controlled substances while potentially evading legal restrictions. Such analogues can often produce similar psychoactive effects, posing similar health risks to users, and this concept is particularly relevant in discussions about drug enforcement and public health regulations.

In contrast, a counterfeit substance would imply that the substance is falsely branded to resemble a legitimate controlled drug but doesn’t necessarily have a similar chemical structure. An adulterant refers to a substance that has been added to another substance, often to dilute or modify its effect, rather than being a structurally similar compound. A controlled substance is a drug classified under regulations due to potential for abuse and dependence, but it does not encompass substances that are not officially recognized as controlled yet share chemical similarities.