Which of the following is a Schedule IV drug commonly used for weight loss?

• A. Pemoline
• B. Phentermine
• C. Zolpidem
• D. Zaleplon

Answer: (B)

Schedule IV drugs with appetite-suppressing effects are used for short-term weight management, and the one most commonly used for this purpose is phentermine. It’s a sympathomimetic amine that helps reduce appetite by increasing norepinephrine signals in the hypothalamic centers that regulate hunger. Being Schedule IV means it has some abuse potential but is less than higher-schedule stimulants, which is why its use is typically limited to short courses and under medical supervision. Side effects can include fast heart rate, high blood pressure, insomnia, and nervousness, so it’s prescribed with caution and not suitable for everyone. Pemoline is a Schedule IV stimulant, but it’s used for ADHD, not weight loss. Zolpidem and zaleplon are Schedule IV sleep medications, not appetite suppressants, so they don’t fit the weight‑loss context.