Schedule III medications have what potential for abuse?

Schedule III medications are classified as having a moderate potential for abuse, which is lower than that of Schedule I and II substances. This classification reflects their acceptable medical use, although misuse may lead to low to moderate physical dependence or high psychological dependence.

For context, Schedule I substances are considered to have the highest potential for abuse and have no accepted medical use, while Schedule II drugs, although medically beneficial, have a high potential for abuse and may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. On the other hand, Schedule III drugs, while still regulated, are deemed to be safer for medical use compared to those in the first two schedules.

Thus, the classification of Schedule III accurately signifies that although there is some risk of misuse, it is significantly lower compared to the more strictly controlled Schedule I and II medications.