October 10, 2006

At present, prescriptions for "Schedule II" controlled painkillers such as codeine, hydrocodone and oxycodone are limited to a 30-day supply. Thus many chronically ill patients suffering from severe pain must return for office visits repeatedly to obtain new prescriptions from their physicians.

On September 6, 2006, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) proposed a rule change that would make it easier for patients with chronic pain or other chronic conditions to avoid multiple trips to a physician. This proposed change would allow a physician to prescribe up to a 90-day supply of Schedule II controlled substances during a single office visit, where medically appropriate.

According to DEA Administrator Karen P. Tandy, "We believe that the statement and proposed rule will help the medical professional ensure that only patients who need medication for pain relief get it. The statement reflects an awareness of patients’ needs as well as the importance of preventing any illegal diversion of prescription drugs." Further, "Today’s policy statement reaffirms that DEA wants doctors to treat pain as is appropriate under accepted medical community standards. Physicians acting in accordance with accepted medical practice should be confident that they will not be criminally charged for prescribing all appropriate pain medications."

Written comments on the proposed rule change must be submitted on or before November 6, 2006.

Contact information and further info can be found at Proposed Rule: Issuance of Multiple Prescriptions for Schedule II Controlled Substances.