What is a "Schedule IV" controlled substance?

A "Schedule IV" controlled substance refers to a category of drugs that are considered to have a lower potential for abuse and dependence compared to substances in higher schedules such as Schedule I, II, or III. In the Controlled Substances Act, substances are classified into schedules based on their potential for abuse, medical use, and safety or dependence risk. Schedule IV substances include medications that may still be subject to regulatory controls due to their potential for misuse or addiction, but they are deemed to have an acceptable medical use and a lower risk compared to those in schedules with stricter regulations. This classification allows for medical professionals to prescribe these substances with appropriate oversight and regulation while maintaining patient safety.

The other options describe different categories of controlled substances: some are related to having no potential for abuse, being illegal, or having the highest potential for abuse, which do not apply to Schedule IV substances. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the context of pharmacy practice and controlled substance regulation.