Which schedule are medications with a high potential for abuse classified under?

Medications classified under Schedule II are those that exhibit a high potential for abuse. This classification indicates that these substances can lead to significant psychological or physical dependence if misused. Schedule II substances are strictly regulated due to their risk of abuse and the potential for severe consequences associated with their misuse.

Examples of Schedule II medications include opioids like morphine and oxycodone, as well as stimulants used for ADHD, such as amphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs are approved for legitimate medical use but require careful monitoring and strict prescribing guidelines in order to minimize the risk of addiction and misuse.

In contrast, Schedule I substances have no accepted medical use and are deemed to have the highest potential for abuse without any therapeutic benefit. Schedules III and IV include medications with decreasing potential for abuse compared to Schedule II, resulting in less stringent regulations.