What is a common characteristic of drugs in Schedule II?

Drugs classified in Schedule II under the Controlled Substances Act are characterized by their high potential for abuse and dependence. This classification indicates that while they can be effective for medical use and may have therapeutic benefits, such as pain management, their risk of leading to severe psychological or physical dependence is significant.

Due to this high potential for abuse, Schedule II drugs are subject to strict regulations, including limited prescribing rights, requirements for written prescriptions, and often restrictions on refills. This regulatory framework is designed to mitigate the risks associated with their misuse and ensure they are used appropriately in clinical settings.

While some Schedule II drugs are accepted for medical use, the defining feature is the high potential for abuse, which sets them apart from substances in other schedules, such as those considered to have lesser abuse potential or those deemed safe for unsupervised use. As such, the emphasis on their significant potential for misuse is critical to understanding their classification and regulation.