Which of the following is an example of Schedule 5 controlled drugs?

• A. Ketamine
• B. Methadone
• C. Codeine in low strength preparations
• D. Diazepam

Answer: (C)

Schedule 5 drugs are the least tightly controlled group of controlled substances. They include preparations that contain only small amounts of a controlled drug and are available with lighter restrictions, such as over-the-counter sale or pharmacist dispensing with basic record-keeping.

Codeine in low-strength preparations fits this category because the amount of codeine is small and the products are designed for general medical use with limited abuse potential. In contrast, ketamine, methadone, and diazepam are subject to stricter controls due to higher risks of misuse and dependence, requiring more rigorous prescription, storage, and record-keeping. Thus, the example that represents Schedule 5 is codeine in low-strength preparations.