Physicians Can Write Multiple Prescriptions for Some Controlled Substances
Physicians now can write a patient multiple prescriptions—to be filled sequentially—for the same Schedule II controlled substance.
Although refilling of Schedule II controlled substances is still prohibited, this new regulation from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) allows the patient to have a 90-day supply of the drug, according to the DEA. The new rule took effect Dec. 19, 2007.
The physician may issue multiple prescriptions, to be filled sequentially, allowing the patient to receive a 90-day supply of that controlled substance if:
- Each prescription is issued for a legitimate medical purpose by a practitioner acting in the usual course of professional practice.
- The practitioner provides written instructions on each prescription (other than the first prescription to be filled immediately) indicating the earliest date the pharmacy may fill each prescription.
- The practitioner concludes that providing the patient with multiple prescriptions does not create an undue risk of diversion or abuse.
- The issuance of multiple prescriptions is permissible under state law (in Pennsylvania, there is no law that prohibits this practice),
- The practitioner complies fully with all other applicable requirements under state and federal law.
Nothing in this regulation requires a physician to issue multiple prescriptions or to see their patients only once every 90 days. Physicians must use their medical judgment to determine whether it is appropriate to issue multiple prescriptions and how often to see patients who have been given multiple prescriptions.
In Pennsylvania, prescriptions for controlled substances must be written in indelible ink or a typewriter and include:
- The date of issue
- The name and address of the patient
- Directions for administration
- The name, address and DEA registration number (which may not be pre-printed) for the prescribing practitioner
- The signature of the prescribing practitioner
Last Updated: 12/17/2007