Which group of drugs includes substances that are not subject to the same level of control as controlled substances?

Over-the-counter drugs, commonly referred to as OTC drugs, are substances that can be purchased without a prescription and are not subject to the stringent regulations that govern controlled substances. These medications are typically considered safe and effective for use by the general public when used according to the directions provided on the packaging or as advised by a healthcare professional.

OTC drugs are available for a wide range of mild health issues, such as pain relief, cold symptoms, and digestive problems, and they do not require monitoring by medical professionals for safe use, which makes them accessible for consumers. This contrasts with other categories of medications, like controlled substances, which are closely regulated due to their potential for abuse and addiction, requiring strict prescription and documentation practices.

Legend drugs, while also prescription-based, fall under a different regulatory framework that entails more control than OTC medications. Narcotics specifically are a subset of controlled substances that typically require special handling and prescriptions due to their high potential for abuse. Exempt narcotics, although less regulated than standard narcotics, still carry some regulatory oversight and are not as freely available as OTC products.

Therefore, identifying over-the-counter drugs as the category with less regulation surrounding their sale and use highlights their accessibility and the broader implications for public health and safety.