Which substance schedule has an accepted medical use in treatment and a high potential for abuse?

The correct answer is that Schedule II substances have an accepted medical use in treatment but also exhibit a high potential for abuse. This classification is part of the Controlled Substances Act, which categorizes drugs based on their medical use and the likelihood of addiction or dependence.

Schedule II drugs are typically available by prescription but come with stringent regulations because of their potential for abuse, which can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Examples of Schedule II substances include medications like oxycodone and morphine, both of which serve critical medical purposes in pain management but have a significant risk for misuse.

In contrast, Schedule I substances are classified as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, making them illegal for medical use altogether. Schedules III and IV include substances that have accepted medical uses but lower potentials for abuse compared to Schedule II substances. Schedule III drugs have moderate potential for abuse, while Schedule IV drugs have lower potential for abuse and are generally subject to less stringent regulations.

By understanding these classifications, it becomes evident why Schedule II is the correct answer, as it directly addresses both accepted medical use and the high potential for abuse, distinguishing it from the other schedules.