What are controlled substances?

Controlled substances refer to drugs that have a significant potential for abuse and addiction. These substances are strictly regulated by law due to their potential for misuse, which can lead to serious health risks and societal issues. The government categorizes these drugs into schedules based on their accepted medical use and the risk of dependency, with Schedule I substances being the most restricted and Schedule V substances having the lowest potential for abuse.

On the other hand, options like over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, as well as medications that are safe for unlimited public access, do not fall under the definition of controlled substances. Over-the-counter medications can be purchased without a prescription and do not exhibit the significant concerns associated with abuse. Similarly, vitamins and supplements are readily available and typically do not have the same legal constraints as controlled substances, which are classified due to their potential to be abused or lead to dependence. Therefore, the correct identification of controlled substances aligns with option B, highlighting their high potential for abuse and the regulatory measures in place.