Cocaine is a:

Cocaine is a:

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

Answer: (B)

Classification of controlled substances is based on abuse potential and accepted medical use. Cocaine is categorized as Schedule II because it has a high potential for abuse and dependence, yet it does have accepted medical uses under strict controls. Historically it has been used as a local anesthetic in certain medical procedures, which explains why it isn’t placed in the most restrictive category. Substances in Schedule I have no accepted medical use and a very high potential for abuse, while those in Schedule II retain medical uses but require tight regulation. The Schedule II designation means that, if prescribed, the drug is issued under strict rules and prescriptions typically cannot be refilled.

Classification of controlled substances is based on abuse potential and accepted medical use. Cocaine is categorized as Schedule II because it has a high potential for abuse and dependence, yet it does have accepted medical uses under strict controls. Historically it has been used as a local anesthetic in certain medical procedures, which explains why it isn’t placed in the most restrictive category. Substances in Schedule I have no accepted medical use and a very high potential for abuse, while those in Schedule II retain medical uses but require tight regulation. The Schedule II designation means that, if prescribed, the drug is issued under strict rules and prescriptions typically cannot be refilled.