Which of the following is a Schedule IV hypnotic agent?

• A. Zaleplon
• B. Pentazocine
• C. Sibutramine
• D. Ephedrine

Answer: (A)

This item tests recognizing which hypnotic medications fall under Schedule IV. Hypnotics used for insomnia that are in Schedule IV are typically nonbenzodiazepine options with a controlled status due to some abuse potential, like zaleplon.

Zaleplon is a Z-drug designed for short-term treatment of insomnia and is classified as Schedule IV because it has accepted medical use but a potential for dependence and abuse that is lower than Schedule III drugs. The other choices don’t fit as Schedule IV hypnotics: pentazocine is an opioid analgesic (Schedule IV) rather than a hypnotic; sibutramine was a weight-loss drug and not a hypnotic; ephedrine is a stimulant and a List I chemical, not a hypnotic.