What schedule are controlled substances with low potential for abuse classified?

Controlled substances that exhibit a low potential for abuse are classified as Schedule 5 substances. This classification is a part of the Controlled Substances Act, which categorizes drugs into schedules based on their potential for abuse, accepted medical use, and safety or dependence liability.

Schedule 5 substances typically include medications that are available by prescription and are recognized to have a lower potential for producing physical or psychological dependence compared to those in higher schedules (like Schedule 2, 3, and 4). Some common examples of Schedule 5 substances are certain cough preparations containing less than 200 mg of codeine per 100 ml or per 100 g, as well as medications for diarrhea that contain small amounts of opiates.

The importance of this classification system lies in its ability to regulate the availability of substances based on their risks and benefits while ensuring that those that are less dangerous can be more readily accessible for medical use. This understanding is critical for healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective patient care while adhering to legal requirements.