Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Practice

Which characteristics define a Schedule I drug?

1. Low abuse potential and accepted medical uses

2. High abuse potential with no accepted medical uses

3. Moderate abuse potential with some medical applications

4. Only used in medical research

The correct answer is: High abuse potential with no accepted medical uses

A Schedule I drug is defined primarily by its high potential for abuse and the absence of accepted medical uses for treatment in the United States. This classification indicates that these substances are considered to pose the greatest risk for addiction and harm. The designation also reflects a consensus that these drugs do not meet the criteria for medical use, making them illegal for any non-research or non-approved medical purposes. In contrast, substances classified in other schedules demonstrate either accepted medical uses, lower abuse potential, or both, which is why the correct understanding of Schedule I relies heavily on its categorization as having high abuse potential without legitimate medical applications. The assertion that a Schedule I drug is only used in medical research does not capture the wider implications of the classification, as it emphasizes a narrow perspective. While research may indeed occur under strict regulations, this does not define the drug's status comprehensively.