The bill amends the "Uniform Controlled Substances Act" to introduce new definitions and regulations concerning the prescription and administration of controlled substances, particularly opioids. It establishes definitions for "acute pain," "chronic intractable pain," and "opioid therapy." Practitioners are permitted to initiate opioid therapy only for acute pain that is unresponsive to non-opioid treatments, and they must prescribe the lowest effective dosage for a maximum of seven days. Additionally, practitioners are required to document discussions regarding the risks of opioid use with the parents or guardians of minors prior to prescribing.

The bill modifies the language regarding practitioners' authority to prescribe controlled substances, ensuring that prescriptions are issued in good faith based on thorough patient assessments. It repeals the existing chapter on Intractable Pain Treatment and replaces it with new provisions that allow for the prescription of controlled substances for chronic intractable pain without disciplinary action, provided that the diagnosis and treatment are documented. Concerns about a patient's potential substance use disorder should not automatically hinder therapeutic prescriptions.

The bill mandates comprehensive record-keeping for controlled substances and requires practitioners to review the prescription drug monitoring program before initiating opioid therapy and every three months for patients on continuous therapy. It also introduces a temporary definition section effective until January 1, 2023, to streamline the legal framework governing controlled substances, ensuring clarity and relevance in pain management practices. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5615: 21-28-1.02
5615  SUB A: 21-28-1.02