What defines a Schedule III drug?

A Schedule III drug is defined by having a low potential for abuse compared to drugs listed in Schedules I and II. These substances have accepted medical uses in the United States and, while they may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence, their risk of abuse is not as significant as that of substances designated in the higher schedules.

This classification reflects a balance between the medical benefits of certain medications and the potential for misuse. For example, drugs like anabolic steroids and certain pain medications fall under this category, as they can be medically useful but are also controlled to some extent due to their potential for abuse.

In contrast, a high potential for abuse characterizes Schedule I and II substances, while substances with no accepted medical value would fall under Schedule I. Severe psychological dependence is more indicative of substances found in Schedule I and II rather than Schedule III, which illustrates the broader context of drug scheduling and regulations in managing controlled substances.