What is the primary characteristic of a Schedule III drug?

A Schedule III drug is primarily characterized by having a limited abuse potential compared to Schedule I and II drugs. These substances are recognized as having a valid medical use in treatment and are less likely to lead to severe psychological or physical dependency when used within the prescribed guidelines.

Examples of Schedule III drugs include anabolic steroids and certain medications that contain combinations of codeine with other ingredients. While they can be abused, the risk is significantly lower than that associated with drugs classified in the higher schedules. This limited abuse potential is essential for understanding how these substances fit into the controlled substances framework, as it informs healthcare providers and the public about their regulated usage and potential risks.

In this context, Schedule III drugs are necessary for managing certain medical conditions while also ensuring safeguards are in place to minimize potential misuse.