Codeine and oxycodone are both categorized under which classification?

Codeine and oxycodone are classified as Schedule II controlled substances due to their high potential for abuse, which can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Schedule II substances are recognized for having accepted medical uses but are subject to strict regulations regarding their prescribing and dispensing. This classification reflects the concern that, although these medications are useful for pain management, they also carry a significant risk for misuse and addiction.

Other schedules, such as Schedule I, include substances that have no accepted medical use and are considered unsafe, making them unsuitable categories for codeine and oxycodone. Schedule III and Schedule IV substances have lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule II, allowing for more lenient prescribing protocols, which does not apply to these medications. Thus, the classification of codeine and oxycodone as Schedule II accurately captures their medical value alongside their risks.