Schedule 8 medicines are controlled drugs with recognised medical uses but higher potential for dependence and misuse, including ADHD stimulants, strong opioid painkillers and some sedatives. Australia regulates them more tightly than ordinary prescription medicines.
Prescribing rules operate at state level and can require permits, specialist involvement or real time prescription monitoring checks. Pharmacies store these medicines securely and record every supply. The framework explains why ADHD medication involves more process than a standard script, even after diagnosis.