
DEA recently proposed a rule change that would allow doctors to prescribe up to a 90-day supply of Schedule II controlled substances. The rule must go through a two-month comment period, which ends on Nov. 6, before it can take effect. Schedule II drugs include a wide range of medications such as codeine and OxyContin (oxycodone, Purdue Pharma). The Controlled Substances Act does not allow refills for Schedule II drugs, forcing many doctors to give multiple prescriptions or to have patients with chronic conditions return regularly. "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," explained DEA administrator Karen Tandy in a written statement.



