National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

Which Schedule involves drugs with a high potential for abuse and accepted medical uses?

1. Schedule I

2. Schedule II

3. Schedule III

4. Schedule IV

The correct answer is: Schedule II

Schedule II includes drugs that have a high potential for abuse but also have accepted medical uses in the United States. Medications in this schedule are often prescribed for legitimate medical purposes, such as pain management or attention deficit disorders, but they carry a significant risk of dependence and abuse. Examples of Schedule II drugs include opioids like oxycodone and stimulants like amphetamine. This classification reflects both the medical utility of these substances and the importance of regulating their distribution to prevent misuse. In contrast, Schedule I drugs are considered to have no acceptable medical use and a high potential for abuse, while Schedule III and Schedule IV drugs have progressively lower potential for abuse and involve less stringent regulations regarding their prescription and dispensing.