Schedule V

Schedule V drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV and consist of preparations containing limited quantities of certain narcotics. Schedule V drugs are generally used for antitussive, antidiarrheal, and analgesic purposes. This classification is specified within the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) in the United States, which is part of the comprehensive drug abuse prevention and control act of 1970.

Overview

Schedule V substances have a lower potential for abuse relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule IV. The abuse of Schedule V drugs may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule IV. The CSA categorizes drugs into five distinct schedules (I-V) based on their potential for abuse, status in international treaties, and any medical benefits they may provide.

Examples of Schedule V Drugs

Examples of substances listed in Schedule V include:

• Cough preparations containing less than 200 milligrams of codeine per 100 milliliters or per 100 grams (Robitussin AC, Phenergan with Codeine).
• Lomotil, an antidiarrheal preparation which contains diphenoxylate and atropine.
• Pregabalin (Lyrica), a medication used to treat epilepsy, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and generalized anxiety disorder.
• Ezogabine, a medication used to treat certain types of seizures in patients with epilepsy.

Regulation

The regulation of Schedule V drugs involves various federal and state laws. Pharmacies and practitioners must comply with these laws when dispensing Schedule V drugs, including proper labeling, record-keeping, and prescription requirements. Unlike Schedule II medications, Schedule V drugs can be refilled without a new prescription up to five times within six months after the date on which the prescription was written, unless prohibited by state law.

Controversies and Considerations

The scheduling of drugs under the CSA, including Schedule V, is subject to ongoing debate. Critics argue that some substances may be improperly classified, either too strictly or too leniently, affecting medical research and patient care. The process for re-scheduling substances is complex and involves multiple federal agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

See Also

• Controlled Substances Act
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• Food and Drug Administration
• Drug scheduling in the United States
• Schedule I drug
• Schedule II drug
• Schedule III drug
• Schedule IV drug

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