American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Assessment Practice Test

The use of methadone in the treatment of chronic pain requires a Schedule II DEA license because methadone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification indicates that methadone has a high potential for abuse, which may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. A Schedule II DEA license ensures that healthcare providers are trained and authorized to prescribe and dispense medications that fall under this category, thus ensuring that the medication is used safely and responsibly.

While other options may seem relevant, they do not align with the specific regulatory requirements for prescribing methadone for chronic pain. A special methadone license specifically pertains to providing opioid use disorder treatment rather than chronic pain management. FDA approval typically relates to the drug's therapeutic indications and safety for use, but does not address the prescribing authority. A state medical license is necessary for any physician to practice, but it does not confer the specific authorization required for the prescription of controlled substances such as methadone. Thus, without the Schedule II DEA license, practitioners would not be legally permitted to prescribe methadone for pain management.