Acetaminophen with codeine belongs to which schedule?

Acetaminophen with codeine is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance. This classification is based on its potential for abuse and the degree of regulation required for its distribution.

Schedule III drugs are defined as substances that have a moderate potential for physical dependence and a lower potential for psychological dependence compared to Schedule I and II drugs. While acetaminophen itself is not a controlled substance, the inclusion of codeine, an opioid, in the combination makes it subject to control as a Schedule III drug.

Therefore, due to its combination formulation and the potential risk associated with the opioid component, acetaminophen with codeine is regulated under this schedule, which reflects a balanced approach to both accessibility for patients who need it for pain management and the necessity to control its distribution to prevent misuse and abuse.