Which substance is strictly regulated due to its potential for danger or habit-forming properties?

Controlled substances are strictly regulated due to their potential for danger or habit-forming properties. These substances include drugs that have a high likelihood of causing dependence, abuse, or harm, which is why they are categorized and regulated by laws and guidelines at both the federal and state levels.

The classification system categorizes controlled substances into different schedules, with Schedule I substances considered to have the highest potential for abuse and the least accepted medical use, while substances in lower schedules have recognized medical uses and a lower potential for abuse. This regulatory framework is designed to minimize the risks associated with these medications and to ensure that they are prescribed and used safely.

In contrast, over-the-counter medications are generally considered safe for public use without a prescription, herbal supplements are often not as strictly regulated and can vary in potency and effectiveness, and prescription vitamins do not typically fall into the same risk categories as controlled substances, as they are usually more benign and not habit-forming. Thus, controlled substances stand out due to their specific regulations aimed at protecting public health and safety.