Cocaine is classified under which Schedule of controlled substances?

Cocaine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. This classification indicates that cocaine has a high potential for abuse, which may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. However, it also has accepted medical uses, albeit under strict regulations. For instance, cocaine may be used as a local anesthetic in certain medical situations, particularly in specific types of surgical procedures involving the eyes or throat.

The other schedules contain substances with varying levels of potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Schedule I substances are those that have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, such as heroin or LSD. Schedule III substances have a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule I and II, and they have accepted medical uses, like certain anabolic steroids. Schedule IV substances have an even lower potential for abuse and also have accepted medical uses, such as some anti-anxiety medications. This contextual understanding of the scheduling system underscores why cocaine is categorized specifically under Schedule II, reflecting both its risks and its legitimate medical applications.