What schedule does phentermine belong to?

Phentermine is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification is due to its potential for abuse and dependence, albeit lower than substances in schedules I through III. Schedule IV drugs are recognized for having legitimate medical uses, primarily as appetite suppressants in the treatment of obesity, while still carrying restrictions to prevent misuse.

In understanding the controlled substance schedules, it's important to note that Schedule I substances have no accepted medical use, while Schedule II and III substances have higher potential for abuse compared to Schedule IV. Additionally, substances in Schedule IV require a prescription but are considered to have a lower risk of addiction than those classified in higher schedules. This low potential for abuse, combined with its accepted therapeutic uses, solidifies phentermine's place in Schedule IV.