South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a Schedule II (C2) drug?

1. Dronabinol

2. Fentanyl

3. Phenobarbital

4. Diphenoxylate with atropine

The correct answer is: Fentanyl

Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II (C2) drug due to its high potential for abuse and dependence, as well as its legitimate medical uses for managing severe pain, particularly in cases like cancer or for post-operative pain relief. In the controlled substances schedule, C2 drugs are recognized for their therapeutic value while acknowledging that they can lead to significant physical or psychological dependence if misused or abused. Fentanyl's potency—being approximately 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine—contributes to its classification, as substances of this nature often necessitate stricter regulations and monitoring to ensure they are prescribed and dispensed appropriately. This classification is important for pharmacists and healthcare providers to understand, as it impacts how these medications are handled in terms of legal requirements and patient safety. In contrast, the other options either fall into different schedules or do not meet the criteria for a C2 listing. For example, dronabinol, while a controlled substance, is typically classified as a Schedule III drug, and phenobarbital is generally classified as a Schedule IV drug. Diphenoxylate with atropine is also classified as a Schedule V drug. Understanding these classifications is essential for ensuring compliance with regulations surrounding the dispensing of controlled