Which of the following medications would typically be classified as controlled substances?

Controlled substances are medications that are regulated by law due to their potential for abuse, addiction, and dependence. Opioids, which include medications commonly prescribed for pain relief, fall into this category because they can create a significant risk of misuse and are closely monitored by regulatory agencies.

The classification of opioids as controlled substances is influenced by their pharmacological effects, the potential for addiction, and the need for strict oversight to prevent abuse. This regulation ensures that these drugs are prescribed and dispensed in a manner that minimizes their potential for misuse while allowing them to be used safely for legitimate medical needs.

In contrast, over-the-counter pain relievers, antibiotics, and vitamin supplements do not typically have the same potential for abuse or dependence and are therefore not classified as controlled substances. By understanding this classification system, it becomes clearer why opioids are treated differently in the context of medication management.