Hydromorphone is classified as which Schedule?

• A. Schedule III
• B. Schedule II
• C. Schedule IV
• D. Schedule I

Answer: (B)

Hydromorphone is a Schedule II controlled substance. The reason is that it is a potent opioid analgesic with a valid medical use for treating moderate to severe pain, but it has a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe physical or psychological dependence. Scheduling it as II reflects that medical value while imposing strict regulatory controls to prevent misuse. Schedule II drugs are tightly regulated compared with Schedule III or IV options, which have lower abuse potential, and Schedule I drugs, which have no accepted medical use. Hydromorphone’s potency and risk profile place it in the II category.