Which of the following is a characteristic of Schedule I drugs?

Schedule I drugs are classified under the Controlled Substances Act and are characterized by their high potential for abuse and the absence of accepted medical use in treatment within the United States. This classification reflects a recognition that these substances pose significant risks to public health and safety due to their potential for addiction and harm. Examples of Schedule I drugs include heroin, LSD, and marijuana (at the federal level).

The defining attribute of Schedule I drugs is that they are considered not only to have a high risk for abuse but also lack any accepted therapeutic applications. This sets them apart from substances in other schedules, which are recognized for their medicinal properties despite also having potential for misuse. The significance of this classification is crucial in the context of regulatory controls, treatment modalities, and public health policies concerning substance use disorders.

Understanding these characteristics helps in grasping the broader implications of drug scheduling, specifically how it influences access to treatment for substance use disorders and informs both clinical practice and policy-making.