Ontario Registered Pharmacy Technician (RphT) Practice Exam 2026 - Free RphT Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term "controlled substances" refers specifically to drugs that are regulated by law due to their potential for abuse, dependency, or addiction. These substances are classified into schedules based on their medical use, safety, and potential for abuse. For example, opioids, stimulants, and certain sedatives fall under this category, and their distribution is closely monitored to prevent misuse.

Regulations surrounding controlled substances, such as the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act in Canada, ensure that there are strict guidelines for prescribing, dispensing, and storing these medications to safeguard public health. This classification aims to mitigate risk while allowing patients access to necessary medications that can effectively treat serious medical conditions.

In contrast, over-the-counter drugs are typically considered safe for self-administration without the need for a prescription, thus they do not fall under the category of controlled substances. Prescription medications can include both controlled substances and non-controlled medications, making the distinction more nuanced. Lastly, vitamins and supplements are generally not classified as controlled substances since they are not associated with abuse potential and typically lack the regulatory restrictions applied to prescribed medications.