What does C2 refer to in the context of controlled substances?

C2 refers to substances that have a high potential for abuse and may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. This classification is part of the scheduling system established by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which categorizes drugs into five schedules based on their potential for abuse, medical use, and safety. Schedule II (C2) drugs are recognized for their medicinal uses but also carry a higher risk, necessitating stricter regulations around their prescribing and dispensing.

This classification reflects a balance between accessibility for legitimate medical use and safeguards to prevent misuse or addiction. Examples of C2 substances include opioids like morphine and oxycodone, as well as stimulants like amphetamine.

The other options represent different categories of substances: substances with no accepted medical use are classified as Schedule I, over-the-counter products do not require a prescription and are not classified under the controlled substances schedules, and research substances may not specifically indicate a C2 classification as they can belong to various schedules depending on their potential for abuse and medical use.