Which drug schedule carries the second highest potential for abuse?

• A. Schedule I
• B. Schedule III
• C. Schedule II
• D. Schedule IV

Answer: (C)

Understanding how drug schedules are ordered helps explain why Schedule II is the answer. The system ranks substances by abuse potential and whether they have an accepted medical use. Schedule I has the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. The next level up, Schedule II, also has a high potential for abuse but does have accepted medical uses with strict restrictions, making it the second highest in potential for abuse. Examples of Schedule II drugs include many powerful opioids (like morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl) and certain stimulants (such as cocaine and amphetamine), which can lead to strong physical or psychological dependence but are still used medically under tight supervision.