What is the schedule classification for benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States. This classification indicates that they have a lower potential for abuse relative to substances classified as Schedule I through III, but they still carry some risk of dependency and abuse. Schedule IV substances are generally considered to have accepted medical uses, but their use must be monitored due to the possibility of causing physical or psychological dependence. This is in contrast to higher schedule classes, which either indicate a higher risk of abuse or have no accepted medical use, as seen in Schedule I substances. Therefore, the designation of benzodiazepines as Schedule IV accurately reflects their therapeutic benefits as well as their potential risks.