Schedule II drugs are described as having what characteristics?

• A. High potential for abuse and have medical use with severe restrictions
• B. Highest potential for abuse with no medical use
• C. Lower potential for abuse and currently accepted medical use
• D. Over-the-counter availability

Answer: (A)

Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse but are recognized as having medical use, with strong restrictions to prevent misuse. This means they must be prescribed in writing, typically with no refills, and they require tight control over who can access and dispense them. They also require secure storage, careful accounting, and precise recordkeeping to monitor quantities and ensure proper use. Examples include opioids like morphine and oxycodone, strong pain relievers such as fentanyl and methadone, and certain stimulants; these are treated much more restrictively than medications available over the counter. This level of control distinguishes them from substances with lower abuse potential and from Schedule I drugs, which have no accepted medical use.