Which of the following is an example of a Schedule IV drug?

• A. Xanax
• B. Darvocet
• C. Tramadol
• D. Lomotil

Answer: (A)

Scheduling is about medical use, abuse potential, and dependence. Schedule IV substances have accepted medical use and a lower potential for abuse and dependence than the higher schedules, though misuse can still lead to some dependence.

Xanax (alprazolam) fits this category. It’s a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, with clear medical use and a relatively lower, but real, risk of dependence compared with many drugs in Schedule II or III. That combination—medical use plus lower abuse potential—places it in Schedule IV, making it a classic example.

Other options either aren’t benzodiazepines or don’t typify Schedule IV status as cleanly, since their scheduling reflects different risk profiles or medical uses.