What defines controlled medication?

Controlled medication is defined as drugs that are regulated due to their potential for abuse and dependence. This classification is crucial because it is aimed at preventing misuse and ensuring that these substances are prescribed, dispensed, and used appropriately. The regulations surrounding controlled medications include strict guidelines for their prescription, distribution, and administration. This is based on the understanding that while these drugs can be beneficial for medical purposes, they also carry the risk of addiction and other serious health complications when misused.

In contrast, the other options do not pertain to the definition of controlled medications. Medications used only in emergencies do not encompass the broader range of controlled substances. Non-prescription medications, which can be obtained without a doctor's prescription, are typically not subject to the same level of regulation as controlled medications. Similarly, over-the-counter drugs are generally considered safe for public use without a prescription and do not demonstrate the same potential for abuse, thus they fall outside the controlled category as well. This understanding of controlled medications is vital for healthcare providers when managing patient care and ensuring safety in medication administration.