Which substance has a high potential for abuse but is currently accepted for medical use?

Cocaine is known for having a high potential for abuse, yet it is also recognized for its medical applications, particularly as a topical anesthetic in surgical settings. Its accepted use in medicine acknowledges the drug's pharmacological properties while also highlighting the need for strict regulation due to the significant risks associated with misuse and addiction.

In contrast, heroin is an illegal substance with no accepted medical use, while MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, is also mainly recognized for recreational use and has limited acceptance in therapeutic contexts. Marijuana, while it has gained acceptance in various jurisdictions for medical use, is classified differently and has a different legal and social standing compared to cocaine.