Due to changes in the federal and state guidelines, there are new rules concerning prescriptions for “controlled substances”:
– effective October 1st, 2014
This is an announcement of a change in policy in how we handle prescriptions
AND refills for controlled substances.
This includes:
* almost all pain medications
* most medications for sleep
* most ADD medications
* many anti-anxiety medications
First time prescriptions for these medications have always required a face-to-face visit. Starting October 1st, 2014 all refills will also require regularly scheduled appointments. The frequency of refill/follow up appointments (generally every 4 to 12 weeks) will be determined by the patient and the provider.
Refills and prescriptions for controlled substances cannot be mailed.
This will require planning and effort on everyone’s part: patients, clinic staff and providers. It is consistent with standards of care throughout the state and country. It promotes accountability and accuracy. Most importantly, these changes will improve patient care.
Most Common Controlled Medications (not a complete list)
Medicines for Pain
hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)
codeine (Tylenol 3, Robitussin AC, Promethazine with codeine)
oxycodone (Percocet, Oxycontin)
tramadol (Ultram)
morphine (MS Contin, Roxanol)
fentanyl (Duragesic)
methadone
hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
Anxiety Sleep
alprazolam (Xanax) temazepam (Restoril)
clonazepam (Klonopin) zolpidem (Ambien)
diazapam (Valium) zaleplon (Sonata)
lorazepam (Ativan) eszopiclone (Lunesta)
Stimulants
methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Methylin)
amphetamine (Adderall)
(Strattera)
(Vyvanse)
(Provigil)
Miscellaneous
chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
buprenorphine and naloxone (Suboxone)
carisprodol (Soma)
phenobarbitol (Donnatol)