What is a characteristic of Schedule III controlled substances?

Schedule III controlled substances are characterized by having a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence when compared to Schedules I and II substances. This classification reflects an understanding that while these substances can be abused, their potential for harm is significantly less than substances in the higher schedules.

This category includes medications such as anabolic steroids, certain barbiturates, and products containing limited quantities of narcotics. They are recognized for their medical utility, permitting their use under a prescription, and they are available to patients with a valid prescription.

While it is true that Schedule III substances are primarily used for medical purposes, this characteristic does not uniquely distinguish them from substances in Schedules I and II, which are also used medically albeit with more stringent controls. Additionally, many Schedule III substances can be refilled, so the statement regarding refills does not apply to this schedule as a whole. They can be obtained with a prescription, which is true for many drug classifications, but again does not set them apart from Schedules I and II, which also require prescriptions.

Thus, having a low potential for abuse relative to higher schedules aptly captures the essence of Schedule III substances.