Drugs are classified into schedules I-V based on what criteria?

The classification of drugs into schedules I-V is primarily based on medical use, which considers their accepted medical purposes and the potential for abuse or dependency. Schedule I drugs, for instance, are those deemed to have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, such as heroin and LSD. In contrast, drugs classified in schedules II through V have recognized medical uses but differ in the level of control due to their potential for abuse.

This system helps regulate drugs in a manner that balances their availability for medical use while protecting public health and safety. Schedule II drugs, such as opioids, may be prescribed but under strict regulations due to their higher potential for abuse compared to those in schedules III to V, where the potential for misuse decreases.

The other options, such as legal status, the cost of production, and popularity among users, do not provide a comprehensive framework for drug classification in the same way. While legal status can relate to the scheduling of a drug, it is not the primary driver of categorization. The cost of production and popularity are not relevant factors in determining the scheduled classification, which is focused instead on safety and potential medical utility.