Which of the following best describes a Schedule II medication?

Schedule II medications are classified as substances that have a high potential for abuse, which may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. This classification under the Controlled Substances Act means that these medications can only be prescribed by licensed healthcare providers and are subject to strict regulations and monitoring.

Examples of Schedule II medications include narcotics such as morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl, which are often used for the management of severe pain and require careful oversight due to their addictive nature. This regulatory framework ensures that while these medications are effective for treating certain medical conditions, they are appropriately controlled to prevent misuse and abuse.

In contrast, options like over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements, and antihistamines do not fall under this stringent scheduling. Over-the-counter medications can be purchased without a prescription and pose less risk of addiction. Vitamins and supplements generally do not require a prescription and are not regulated as controlled substances, while antihistamines are also available without a prescription and are used for mild symptoms like allergy relief, making them distinct from the high-risk category of Schedule II medications.