National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

Which of the following is true for Schedule II substances?

1. Can be dispensed without a prescription

2. May lead to moderate or low physical dependence

3. Has accepted medical uses with severe restrictions

4. Very low potential for abuse

The correct answer is: Has accepted medical uses with severe restrictions

Schedule II substances are characterized by having accepted medical uses, but these uses come with severe restrictions due to their high potential for abuse and the risk of developing severe psychological or physical dependence. This is why they are tightly regulated and can only be prescribed by licensed medical professionals under strict circumstances. For instance, while they can be used in the management of conditions such as pain, their abuse potential necessitates careful monitoring and control. The other options do not align with the understanding of Schedule II substances. They cannot be dispensed without a prescription, as this option would undermine the regulation surrounding their use. Additionally, the implication that they may lead to moderate or low physical dependence contradicts their classification, as Schedule II substances are associated with a high risk of dependence. Finally, the statement about having a very low potential for abuse is inaccurate, as this is one of the key reasons for their classification as Schedule II; they are understood to carry a significant potential for abuse.