Which schedule of substances is considered to have the lowest potential for abuse?

The schedule of substances with the lowest potential for abuse is indeed Schedule V. Substances in this category are generally regarded as having a very low potential for addiction relative to those in higher schedules. Schedule V drugs are often used for medicinal purposes and include medications that typically contain limited quantities of narcotics, such as cough preparations with less than 200 milligrams of codeine per 100 milliliters or per 100 grams.

Because of their lower abuse potential, Schedule V substances can be more readily prescribed and dispensed, often with fewer regulatory restrictions compared to substances classified in higher schedules. This categorization reflects a careful evaluation of the risk associated with their use, indicating that while they still possess some potential for dependence or abuse, it is significantly lower than that of substances in higher schedules.