Which Schedule III drug is commonly used for pain relief and is often combined with acetaminophen?

Hydrocodone combined with acetaminophen is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance that is frequently used for pain relief. This combination is popular because hydrocodone is an opioid that effectively alleviates moderate to severe pain, while acetaminophen enhances the pain-relieving effects and helps to reduce fever.

The formulation of hydrocodone with acetaminophen allows for a lower dosage of each component to achieve effective pain management, making it a common choice in clinical practice. Regulatory agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), monitor such combinations carefully due to the potential for misuse, given that hydrocodone has addictive properties.

Other options listed include substances that do not align with the criteria specified in the question. Hydromorphone is a more potent opioid and is classified as Schedule II, while methadone is also a Schedule II opioid primarily used for addiction treatment and pain management, not typically combined with acetaminophen. Methylphenidate, a stimulant used for ADHD treatment, is classified as a Schedule II drug and has no affiliation with pain relief or acetaminophen combinations.