Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam

Which medication requires particular caution due to a high potential for abuse?

1. Tramadol

2. Fentanyl

3. Ibuprofen

4. Diphenhydramine

The correct answer is: Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is used for pain management, particularly in patients who are opioid-tolerant or have severe pain. Its high potency, which is estimated to be 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, significantly increases its potential for abuse and addiction. Fentanyl can lead to respiratory depression, a serious and potentially fatal side effect, especially when misused or combined with other central nervous system depressants. Due to these factors, regulatory bodies categorize fentanyl as a schedule II controlled substance, which signifies its high potential for abuse, leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. In contrast, tramadol, although it is an opioid analgesic, has a lower potential for abuse compared to fentanyl and is classified as a schedule IV controlled substance. Ibuprofen and diphenhydramine are over-the-counter medications and do not carry a high potential for abuse, making them less concerning in this context. Therefore, fentanyl requires particular caution due to its significant risks associated with abuse and dependence.