What is the legal classification of pregabalin under federal law?

Pregabalin is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance under federal law due to its potential for abuse, but it is considered to have a lower potential compared to substances in Schedules I, II, and III. Schedule IV drugs are characterized by having accepted medical uses and lower risk of physical dependence or severe psychological dependence.

The classification of pregabalin reflects the findings of studies that suggested its abuse potential was relatively low compared to more tightly controlled substances. This classification allows for managing its distribution while still recognizing its therapeutic value in treating conditions such as neuropathic pain and certain types of seizures.

In contrast, the other schedules denote substances with varying risks; Schedule I includes drugs with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, while Schedules II and III contain substances that have a higher potential for abuse than Schedule IV. Understanding these classifications is crucial for pharmacy practice, as they guide prescribing, dispensing, and regulatory compliance.