Which statement correctly identifies hydromorphone’s scheduling?

Which statement correctly identifies hydromorphone’s scheduling?

• A. Hydromorphone is Schedule II
• B. Buprenorphine is Schedule II
• C. Tramadol is Schedule II
• D. Fentanyl is Schedule II

Answer: (A)

Scheduling under the Controlled Substances Act groups drugs by their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Hydromorphone is a potent opioid analgesic with a recognized medical use, but it has a high potential for abuse and dependence. That combination places it in Schedule II, which covers drugs with high abuse potential that still have medical use and strict controls. This is why hydromorphone shares Schedule II with other strong opioids such as fentanyl. For contrast, buprenorphine is Schedule III (lower abuse potential relative to Schedule II) and tramadol is Schedule IV (even lower potential).

Scheduling under the Controlled Substances Act groups drugs by their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Hydromorphone is a potent opioid analgesic with a recognized medical use, but it has a high potential for abuse and dependence. That combination places it in Schedule II, which covers drugs with high abuse potential that still have medical use and strict controls. This is why hydromorphone shares Schedule II with other strong opioids such as fentanyl. For contrast, buprenorphine is Schedule III (lower abuse potential relative to Schedule II) and tramadol is Schedule IV (even lower potential).