Codeine cough syrup is classified under which schedule?

Codeine cough syrup is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance. This classification is based on the formulation and the concentration of codeine present in the cough syrup. Schedule V substances have a lower potential for abuse relative to higher schedules, such as Schedule II or III.

In the case of codeine cough syrups, they typically contain a lower concentration of codeine, often combined with other active ingredients, and are used primarily for managing cough. The scheduling reflects the recognition that while there is some potential for misuse, particularly if misused or used outside of medical guidance, the lower concentrations and medicinal use of these formulations mitigate that potential significantly compared to higher-scheduled opioids.

Understanding this classification is crucial for pharmacists and healthcare providers, as it affects prescribing authority, dispensing guidelines, and patient education regarding the safe use of these medications.