Rhode Island Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence (MPJE) Practice Exam

What is the schedule classification for all benzodiazepines?

1. III

2. IV

3. V

4. I

The correct answer is: IV

Benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification reflects the drugs' recognized medical uses as well as their potential for abuse and dependence. Schedule IV substances have a lower potential for abuse compared to those in higher schedules, like Schedule II and III, which makes benzodiazepines more accessible for legitimate medical use while still being regulated to ensure safety in their prescription and distribution. In contrast, substances in Schedule III have a moderate potential for abuse, and Schedule V substances have a lower potential for abuse than those in Schedule IV. Schedule I substances, on the other hand, are categorized as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, which does not apply to benzodiazepines. Thus, the classification of benzodiazepines as Schedule IV aligns with their risk-benefit profile in medical treatment.