Which statement correctly characterizes Schedule I controlled substances?

• A. No accepted medical use; high abuse potential.
• B. High potential for abuse; medically allowed with restrictions.
• C. Moderate to low potential; refills possible with restrictions.
• D. Lowest potential; often OTC under supervision.

Answer: (A)

Schedule I substances are defined by having no currently accepted medical use in the United States and a high potential for abuse, with no accepted safety for use under medical supervision. That combination is what makes this statement correct: there is no accepted medical use, and the abuse potential is high. Because of that, these substances aren’t prescribed or dispensed for medical treatment and are tightly restricted to approved research.

The other descriptions would apply to substances with some medical use and stricter controls (Schedule II), or to substances with lower abuse potential that may be prescribed or are available OTC in limited contexts, which is not true for Schedule I.