Which type of drug has the least potential for abuse?

The choice indicating that Schedule V drugs have the least potential for abuse is grounded in the classification system established by the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule V drugs are substances that contain limited quantities of certain narcotics and are generally used for medical purposes such as cough suppression or treatment of diarrhea.

These substances are recognized as having a lower potential for abuse relative to drugs classified in higher schedules like I, II, and III. As such, they are typically available prescription-free in many states, demonstrating their relatively low risk of leading to dependence or misuse.

In contrast, Schedule I drugs have a high potential for abuse and lack accepted medical use, while Schedule II and III substances have higher abuse potentials and are more tightly regulated. This context establishes Schedule V as the category with the least concern regarding abuse potential, signifying that these drugs are considered safer in a medical context compared to those found in the higher schedules.