Ohio Pharmacy Law Practice Test

What classification schedule does Brivaracetam (Briviact) fall under?

1. Schedule 4

2. Schedule 5

3. Schedule 3

4. Schedule 2

The correct answer is: Schedule 5

Brivaracetam, which is marketed under the brand name Briviact, is classified as a Schedule 5 controlled substance. This classification is determined based on the drug's potential for misuse, abuse, and dependence relative to other substances. Schedule 5 drugs are generally considered to have a lower potential for abuse compared to substances classified in higher schedule categories. Brivaracetam is primarily used as an anticonvulsant for the treatment of epilepsy; however, it has been classified in a way that acknowledges its therapeutic uses while keeping it regulated due to its effects and potential for misuse, albeit at a lower risk than drugs in higher schedules such as Schedule 2 or Schedule 3. The other schedules indicated in the options represent substances with varying degrees of potential for abuse and medical usefulness. Schedule 2, for example, is for drugs that have a high potential for severe psychological or physical dependence, while Schedule 3 and Schedule 4 regulate substances with somewhat lesser potential for abuse. Since Brivaracetam has been designated as Schedule 5, it highlights its relative safety and lower likelihood of abuse in comparison to those higher-up schedules.