[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 222 (Monday, November 19, 2007)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 64921-64930]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-22558]


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DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Drug Enforcement Administration

21 CFR Part 1306

[Docket No. DEA-287F]
RIN 1117-AB01


Issuance of Multiple Prescriptions for Schedule II Controlled 
Substances

AGENCY: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Department of Justice

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is finalizing a 
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking published on September 6, 2006 (71 FR 
52724). In that document, DEA proposed to amend its regulations to 
allow practitioners to provide individual patients with multiple 
prescriptions, to be filled sequentially, for the same schedule II 
controlled substance, with such multiple prescriptions having the 
combined effect of allowing a patient to receive over time up to a 90-
day supply of that controlled substance.

DATES: Effective Date: This rule is effective December 19, 2007.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mark W. Caverly, Chief, Liaison and 
Policy Section, Office of Diversion Control, Drug Enforcement 
Administration, Washington, DC 20537, Telephone (202) 307-7297.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    On September 6, 2006, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) 
published in the  Federal Register a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
(NPRM) (71 FR 52724) proposing to amend its regulations to allow 
practitioners to provide individual patients with multiple 
prescriptions, to be filled sequentially, for the same schedule II 
controlled substance, with such multiple prescriptions having the 
combined effect of allowing a patient to receive over time up to a 90-
day supply of that controlled substance.

Comments Received

    DEA received 264 comments regarding the NPRM. Two hundred thirty-
one commenters supported the NPRM, 33 commenters opposed the 
rulemaking. Commenters supporting the NPRM included six physician 
associations, including those representing anesthesiologists, 
pediatricians, and psychiatrists, and three state level licensing 
organizations;

[[Page 64922]]

five nursing associations, including several nursing specialty 
associations; 3 pharmacy associations and 6 state boards of pharmacy; 
17 organizations focusing on the treatment of pain and end of life 
issues; 8 other organizations; and individual commenters including 73 
pain patients, 65 physicians or physicians' offices, 31 parents of 
children with attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit 
hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), 30 individual citizens, 16 pharmacists, 
5 nurses, and 2 physician's assistants. Commenters opposing the NPRM 
included 1 organization focusing on the treatment of pain; 17 
individual citizens; 8 physicians; 3 pharmacists or pharmacy workers; 2 
parents of pain patients; 1 nurse; and 1 physician's assistant.
    The vast majority of commenters supported the rulemaking as 
proposed, although some commenters suggested various changes or 
requested clarification of certain issues. DEA has carefully considered 
all comments received. An in-depth discussion of the issues raised by 
commenters and DEA's responses to those comments follows.

Discussion of Comments

    Of the 264 comments DEA received, 166 expressed approval of the 
proposed rule without change. The remainder of the comments either 
objected to the proposed rule or suggested modifications thereto. The 
major issues raised by the commenters are addressed below.
    Comments expressing approval of the proposed rule without change: 
Commenters who expressed support for this rule represented a broad 
variety of interest groups, medical professionals, pharmacists, and 
patients. General comments regarding the support for this rule and the 
benefits commenters believed it will have appear below.
    Patients being treated for pain: Commenters who described 
themselves as patients who receive controlled substances for the 
treatment of pain were very supportive of implementation of the rule as 
proposed. These commenters noted that the allowance for multiple 
prescriptions would reduce the number of visits they would need to make 
to practitioners, which would be beneficial financially. Many of these 
patients indicated they are unemployed or underemployed due to their 
medical conditions, and each additional visit to practitioners for the 
purpose of receiving another prescription takes a financial toll on 
them.
    Among the patients who commented in support of the rule were those 
who indicated that they live in rural areas. These commenters explained 
that, currently, they must either drive to their practitioners, which 
is difficult for them, or must find someone to drive them because they 
cannot drive themselves due to their condition. They noted that 
arranging rides is often difficult and that the drive to a practitioner 
may be several hours each way. Some also stated that the trip is 
expensive and that the length of the trip exacerbates their conditions. 
According to these commenters, implementation of the proposed rule 
would enable them to visit their prescribing practitioners less 
frequently, thereby lessening the foregoing difficulties.
    Parents of children receiving controlled substances: Commenters who 
described themselves as parents of children with ADD or ADHD welcomed 
the proposed rule. In their view, if the proposed rule is implemented, 
they no longer will have to take their children to their prescribing 
practitioners every month. As a result, they indicated they will be 
able to take less time off from work and their children will have fewer 
absences from school. Many of these commenters also noted that having 
to make monthly visits to practitioners is especially burdensome to 
single parents. These commenters also identified reduced costs as a 
reason for their support of the proposed rule.
    Prescribing practitioners: Commenters who identified themselves as 
practitioners who prescribe controlled substances were, for the most 
part, strongly supportive of the proposed rule. Many of these 
commenters expressed the view that allowing the issuance of multiple 
sequential prescriptions for schedule II controlled substances will 
drastically reduce the work of the practitioners' offices and free up 
valuable practitioner-patient time. Many also expressed the view that 
for some of their patients whom they characterized as ``stable'' 
(including certain patients with chronic pain and ADD or ADHD), they 
believe there is no medical need to see such patients every month. In 
such cases, some of these commenters added they believe having to make 
monthly visits to the practitioner is a hardship to patients who are 
already suffering. It should be noted that some commenters who 
identified themselves as practitioners expressed a sharply contrasting 
view, asserting that patients who receive schedule II controlled 
substances should be seen in person at least once a month to ensure 
proper medical supervision and to lessen the likelihood of drug 
addiction and abuse. This latter perspective of some commenting 
practitioners is addressed further below.
    Pharmacists: Commenters who identified themselves as pharmacists 
were, for the most part, supportive of the proposed rule. These 
commenters stated that issuing multiple prescriptions for sequential 
filling for schedule II controlled substances would reduce the quantity 
of those controlled substances dispensed to a patient at any one time. 
They argued that this reduced quantity could reduce the potential for 
abuse or diversion of these controlled substances. Some pharmacists 
indicated they would be more comfortable dispensing these prescriptions 
because of the more limited quantities dispensed.
    90-day supply at one time: Sixteen commenters who supported the 
NPRM, and six commenters who disagreed with the NPRM, believed that the 
entire 90-day supply of controlled substances was available at one time 
instead of in sequential prescriptions. Commenters who supported the 
rule but believed that DEA is advocating the dispensing of a 90-day 
supply of controlled substances at one time cited the ease of filling 
prescriptions and obtaining reimbursement as reasons for their support. 
Those who objected to the rule on this ground believed it would be more 
difficult to monitor patients.
    DEA response: In view of these comments, DEA wishes to make clear 
that the NPRM did not advocate that physicians prescribe a 90-day 
supply of controlled substances with a single prescription. Rather, the 
NPRM stated that if a physician determines it is medically appropriate 
to issue multiple schedule II prescriptions, the physician may provide 
for up to a 90-day supply through the use of multiple schedule II 
prescriptions under the conditions specified in the proposed rule.
    As to the comment that DEA should allow multiple schedule II 
prescriptions for unlimited days' worth of schedule II controlled 
substances, as DEA explained in the NPRM, for the proposed rule to be 
legally permissible, it must be consistent with the text, structure, 
and purposes of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). In this regard, 21 
U.S.C. 829(a) states: ``No prescription for a controlled substance in 
schedule II may be refilled.'' By comparison, subsection 829(b) states 
that, for a schedule III or IV controlled substance, a prescription may 
be refilled up to five times within six months after the date the 
prescription was issued. Thus, Congress clearly mandated greater 
prescription controls for schedule II substances than for schedule III 
and IV substances. For example, a physician may--consistent with the 
statute--issue a prescription for a schedule III or IV controlled

[[Page 64923]]

substance and indicate on the prescription a certain number of refills. 
In this manner, a physician may provide a patient with up to a six-
month supply of a schedule III or IV controlled substance with a single 
prescription indicating five refills. The same cannot be done with a 
schedule II controlled substance since section 829(a) prohibits 
refills. The statute requires a separate prescription if the physician 
wishes to authorize a continuation of the patient's use of a schedule 
II drug beyond the amount specified on the first prescription. Thus, if 
DEA were to allow multiple prescriptions for an unlimited days' worth 
of schedule II controlled substances, the controls for prescribing 
schedule II controlled substances would be less stringent than for 
schedule III and IV controlled substances--a result that would conflict 
with the purpose and structure of the CSA. DEA believes that the 90-day 
limit, under the terms specified in the proposed rule, strikes a fair 
balance that takes into account the limitation imposed by Congress 
under section 829 as well as the general structure of the statute, 
which imposes greater controls for schedule II substances than those in 
lower schedules.
    Sequential filling of prescriptions, ``refills'': One commenter 
opposed the NPRM because the commenter believed that sequential 
prescriptions were ``refills'' which are not permitted by law. Two 
commenters suggested writing all sequential prescriptions, which the 
commenters referred to as ``refills,'' on one prescription. They 
believed this would prevent the patient from changing the dates or 
using multiple pharmacies to fill the prescriptions. Commenters also 
believed this would eliminate the possibility of the patient claiming 
that the original prescription had been lost and requesting replacement 
prescriptions. Two commenters recommended allowing 90-day sequential 
prescriptions on one prescription blank, but allowing the practitioner 
to prescribe the intervals at which it would be filled, rather than 
only permitting 30-day interval sequential fillings.
    One commenter suggested writing a single prescription with two 
``refills'' with the annotation ``Do not fill more frequently than once 
a month.'' One commenter suggested permitting not more than two 
``refills'' of a schedule II prescription, but requiring the use of 
triplicate prescription blanks with one copy being sent to the state 
and the second copy being sent to DEA. The commenter then suggested 
that if a practitioner chose not to agree to this system, then the 
practitioner would not be permitted to sequentially prescribe any 
schedule II prescription. The commenter believed that this system would 
prevent theft and loss.
    DEA response: As discussed above, DEA believes that the proposed 
rule takes into account the CSA prohibition on refilling prescriptions 
for schedule II controlled substances in a manner consistent with the 
overall framework of the Act. The use of multiple prescriptions for the 
dispensing of schedule II controlled substances, under the conditions 
set forth in this Final Rule, ensures that the prescriptions are 
treated as separate dispensing documents, not refills of an original 
prescription. As this Final Rule indicates, each separate prescription 
must be written for a legitimate medical purpose by a practitioner 
acting in the usual course of professional practice, and the 
practitioner must provide written instructions on each separate 
prescription regarding the filling of that prescription.
    Regarding the comment that suggested allowing the writing of a 
single prescription with two ``refills'' with the annotation ``Do not 
fill more frequently than once a month,'' this would conflict with the 
CSA, which, as explained above, disallows the refilling of schedule II 
prescriptions. As indicated in this Final Rule, when issuing multiple 
prescriptions for a schedule II controlled substance, each of the 
prescriptions to be filled sequentially must be written on a separate 
prescription blank and must contain the information specified in this 
Final Rule.
    As for the suggestion that DEA require the use of triplicate 
prescription blanks, DEA has never required triplicate prescription 
blanks for prescriptions and believes, at this time, that the 
requirements contained in this Final Rule provide adequate safeguards 
against diversion, which render unnecessary the use of triplicate 
prescription blanks. However, as with all newly promulgated 
regulations, DEA will continue to monitor the situation to determine 
whether additional modifications are needed to safeguard against 
diversion. DEA recognizes that some states require the use of 
triplicate prescriptions for some or all controlled substances. DEA 
supports the efforts of states to take the specific action they deem 
necessary to prevent the diversion of controlled substances within 
their jurisdictions. This Final Rule expressly requires practitioners 
to comply with all applicable provisions of state law when issuing 
multiple schedule II prescriptions.
    Federal law and schedule II controlled substances: Five commenters 
requested written clarification that this rule is not intended to 
change existing Federal law which does not limit the length of time for 
which an individual prescription may be written or the total quantity, 
including the number of dosage units, that may be prescribed at one 
time. Further, two commenters suggested that DEA state, in the Final 
Rule, that federal law does not address how frequently a practitioner 
must see his patient, and that it remains within the practitioner's 
reasonable medical judgment as to how frequently the practitioner sees 
a patient.
    Commenters requested that DEA clarify that the practitioner is not 
required to see the patient every 30 days or at the end of 90 days. One 
commenter requested that DEA clarify whether a practitioner is required 
to see a patient after 90 days. Alternatively, the commenter inquired 
as to whether the practitioner is permitted to write a new prescription 
with ``Do not fill until'' and mail it to the patient or have the 
patient pick it up if, in the prescribing practitioner's medical 
judgment, the patient does not need to see the practitioner. One 
commenter recommended DEA clarify whether it is DEA's intent to limit 
any schedule II controlled substance prescription to only a 90-day 
supply or, alternatively, to limit sequential schedule II prescriptions 
written on the same day to a 90-day supply. One commenter requested 
clarification as to whether the regulation limits the supply to 90 days 
when only a single schedule II controlled substance prescription is 
issued.
    DEA response: As the NPRM made clear, the proposed rule in no way 
changes longstanding federal law governing the issuance of 
prescriptions for controlled substances. As stated in the NPRM: ``What 
is required, in each instance where a physician issues a prescription 
for any controlled substance, is that the physician properly determine 
there is a legitimate medical purpose for the patient to be prescribed 
that controlled substance and that the physician be acting in the usual 
course of professional practice.'' (71 FR 52725, September 6, 2006). 
Further, this Final Rule itself contains the following statement:

    Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as mandating or 
encouraging individual practitioners to issue multiple prescriptions 
or to see their patients only once every 90 days when prescribing 
Schedule II controlled substances. Rather, individual practitioners 
must determine on their own, based on sound medical judgment, and in 
accordance with established medical standards, whether it is 
appropriate to issue

[[Page 64924]]

multiple prescriptions and how often to see their patients when 
doing so.

In addition, in the August 26, 2005, ``Clarification of Existing 
Requirements Under the Controlled Substances Act for Prescribing 
Controlled Substances'' (70 FR 50408), DEA stated the following:

    The CSA and DEA regulations contain no specific limit on the 
number of days worth of a schedule II controlled substance that a 
physician may authorize per prescription. Some states, however, do 
impose specific limits on the amount of a schedule II controlled 
substance that may be prescribed. Any limitations imposed by state 
law apply in addition to the corresponding requirements under 
Federal law, so long as the state requirements do not conflict with 
or contravene the Federal requirements. 21 U.S.C. 903. Again, the 
essential requirement under Federal law is that the prescription for 
a controlled substance be issued for a legitimate medical purpose in 
the usual course of professional practice. In addition, physicians 
and pharmacies have a duty as DEA registrants to ensure that their 
prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances occur in a 
manner consistent with effective controls against diversion and 
misuse, taking into account the nature of the drug being prescribed. 
21 U.S.C. 823(f).

    This Final Rule does not change any of the foregoing principles of 
the CSA and DEA regulations.
    Effective date of prescription: Two commenters requested that DEA 
clarify the effective date of a sequential prescription for a schedule 
II controlled substance. Some commenters pointed out that some states 
stipulate ``effective dates'' for prescriptions, noting that these 
states have laws which require that, to be valid, prescriptions must be 
filled within a certain time after they are written, and that these 
time limits differ by state. Some commenters noted that if the time 
limit starts on the date all the sequential prescriptions are written, 
then it cannot be used in some states. If the effective date starts on 
the ``Do not fill until'' date on the second and third prescriptions, 
then it will be valid in many more states.
    Three commenters requested clarification as to whether it is 
legally permissible for a practitioner to issue a single prescription 
with ``Do not fill before [date],'' in which the ``Do not fill'' date 
is, for example, 7-10 days in the future.
    DEA response: Neither the CSA nor the DEA regulations use the term 
``effective date'' for a prescription. The DEA regulations require that 
all prescriptions for controlled substances ``be dated as of, and 
signed on, the day when issued.'' 21 CFR 1306.05(a). This Final Rule 
does not amend the regulations regarding the date of issuance of a 
prescription.
    Under longstanding federal law and DEA regulations, there is no 
express requirement that a prescription be filled within a certain time 
after it was issued. The proposed rule likewise contained no such 
express requirement, as DEA believes that the requirements contained in 
the proposed rule provided adequate safeguards against diversion. At 
the same time, the proposed rule made clear that the issuance of 
multiple prescriptions is permissible only if ``the individual 
practitioner complies fully with all other applicable requirements 
under the [CSA] and [DEA] regulations as well as any additional 
requirements under state law.'' (71 FR 52726). To make this point 
unambiguous, the NPRM also stated that ``nothing in this proposed rule 
changes the requirement that physicians must also abide by the laws of 
the states in which they practice and any additional requirements 
imposed by their state medical boards with respect to proper 
prescribing practices and what constitutes a bona fide physician-
patient relationship.'' (71 FR 52725).
    The proposed rule did not address whether a single prescription 
with ``Do not fill before [date]'' instructions is permissible. Nor 
does any existing provision of the CSA or DEA regulations address this 
type of prescribing. Accordingly, there is no prohibition on doing so 
under the CSA or DEA regulations, provided the practitioner otherwise 
complies fully with all applicable requirements of federal and state 
law.
    Insurance reimbursement considerations: Four commenters requested 
further relaxation of the regulations to allow a 90-day supply of 
schedule II controlled substances to be dispensed at one time because, 
these commenters asserted, this would significantly decrease the cost 
of the medications to the patients through their health insurance. One 
commenter also recommended permitting the pharmacy to dispense a 90-day 
supply on one prescription, making it available in 30-day intervals, 
but allowing the patient to pay for the entire supply at one time to 
save on the cost of the medication.
    DEA response: It is beyond the scope of DEA's authority under the 
CSA to take regulatory action for the specific purpose of affecting the 
manner in which patients pay for the medications or the manner in which 
insurance providers reimburse patients for such costs. As mentioned 
previously, the CSA and DEA regulations contain no specific limit on 
the number of days' worth of a schedule II controlled substance that a 
practitioner may authorize per prescription.
    Limitations regarding certain medications: Three commenters 
supported the use of sequential prescriptions specifically for schedule 
II controlled substances used to treat ADD or ADHD, but disagreed with 
the use of sequential prescriptions for schedule II controlled 
substances used in the treatment of pain. Commenters believed pain 
patients should be seen and evaluated every 30 days and have 
medications prescribed at that time. One commenter requested that DEA 
include explicit language indicating that this regulation is applicable 
to all patients being treated for ADHD with stimulant medications.
    Conversely, one commenter supported the use of sequential 
prescriptions only for narcotic schedule II controlled substances, or 
pain medications.
    Another commenter suggested rescheduling methylphenidate and 
amphetamines, except methamphetamine, to separate them from pain 
medications because the two populations for ADHD medications and pain 
medications are different.
    DEA response: This rule pertains to all schedule II controlled 
substances, not just those substances intended or approved to treat 
certain conditions. As DEA stated in the September 6, 2006, Policy 
Statement published in conjunction with the Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking (71 FR 52716), it is certainly appropriate for prescribing 
practitioners and medical oversight boards to explore questions 
regarding appropriate treatment regimens for particular categories of 
controlled substances. Moreover, it might indeed be beneficial toward 
preventing diversion and abuse of controlled substances for prescribing 
practitioners to see patients at regular intervals when prescribing 
certain controlled substances for certain medical conditions. However, 
as the Policy Statement made clear, DEA does not regulate the general 
practice of medicine and the agency lacks the authority to issue 
guidelines that constitute advice on the general practice of medicine. 
DEA wishes to reiterate the general principle that the prescribing 
practitioner must properly determine there is a legitimate medical 
purpose for the patient to be prescribed the controlled substance and 
must be acting in the usual course of professional practice. Similarly, 
a pharmacy has a corresponding responsibility in this regard.
    Regarding the comment suggesting the rescheduling of certain 
schedule II

[[Page 64925]]

controlled substances based on the conditions and populations which 
they are intended to treat, DEA notes that scheduling of controlled 
substances is based on scientific determinations regarding the 
substance's potential for abuse, its potential for psychological and 
physical dependence, and whether the substance has a currently accepted 
medical use in treatment in the United States (21 U.S.C. 812(b)). DEA 
may not reschedule a substance merely based on the population it is 
intended or approved to treat.
    Language on sequential prescriptions: Two commenters suggested not 
limiting the language on the prescription to ``Do not fill before 
[date].'' These commenters suggested other alternatives including ``Do 
not fill until xx/xx/xxxx,'' and ``Fill on xx/xx/xxxx.'' Five 
commenters requested that DEA provide examples of acceptable language 
in the Final Rule. One commenter suggested requiring a standardized 
method for dating prescriptions, and considering prescriptions void if 
that standard is not adhered to. Another commenter recommended that 
specific indication should be provided regarding sequential 
prescriptions by including ``1 of 3,'' ``2 of 3,'' and ``3 of 3'' on 
the prescriptions.
    DEA response: The Final Rule states that the individual 
practitioner must ``[provide] written instructions on each prescription 
(other than the first prescription, if the prescribing practitioner 
intends for that prescription to be filled immediately) indicating the 
earliest date on which a pharmacy may fill each prescription.'' The 
commenters have correctly observed that this provision does not mandate 
that the practitioner use any particular language in the instructions 
on the sequential prescriptions, so long as such instructions make 
clear what is the earliest date on which the pharmacy may fill each 
prescription. DEA believes this is a sufficiently clear rule that 
practitioners will be able to understand and carry it out and, 
therefore, it is unnecessary to insist on a particular scripted 
approach. Likewise, under this Final Rule, a practitioner may--but is 
not required to--do as the commenter suggested and write on the 
sequential prescriptions, ``1 of 3,'' ``2 of 3,'' and ``3 of 3'', so 
long as each prescription complies fully with all the requirements of 
this Final Rule, including that it contains specific instructions 
regarding the earliest date on which the sequential prescription may be 
filled.
    One commenter recommended that the practitioner write in his/her 
own handwriting in blue ink ``Do not fill until [date].''
    DEA response: DEA appreciates that the underlying intent of this 
comment is to ensure that the ``Do not fill until [date]'' instructions 
were actually written by the practitioner, as opposed to being the 
result of forgery. While DEA supports all efforts of practitioners to 
take steps to prevent forgery in the context of prescriptions, the 
agency believes it is unnecessary to adopt the particular added 
requirement suggested by this commenter.
    One commenter recommended that certain diagnostic codes, known as 
ICD-9 codes, should be written by the practitioner in their own 
handwriting on the face of the prescription.
    DEA response: DEA has not previously required that prescriptions 
contain such diagnostic information, and the agency does not believe 
that such requirement is necessary to prevent diversion and abuse of 
controlled substances when issuing multiple prescriptions in accordance 
with the rule being issued today.
    Post-dating of prescriptions: One commenter recommended allowing 
post-dated prescriptions so the practitioner does not have to use space 
on the prescription blank for the phrase ``Do not fill before [date].''
    DEA response: The DEA regulations have always required that all 
prescriptions for controlled substances ``be dated as of, and signed 
on, the day when issued.'' 21 CFR 1306.05(a). This requirement is 
essential to monitor compliance with all provisions of the CSA and DEA 
regulations relating to the prescribing and dispensing of controlled 
substances, including (but not limited to) the requirement that a 
controlled substance be dispensed, including prescribed, only for a 
legitimate medical purpose by a practitioner acting in the usual course 
of professional practice. Accordingly, it would be inappropriate to 
allow post-dating of prescriptions under any circumstance, including 
when issuing multiple prescriptions under the Final Rule being issued 
today.
    Return of unfilled prescriptions: One commenter suggested that a 
patient return to the practitioner unfilled prescriptions (if issued 
for sequential dispensing) if the practitioner changes the medication 
and before the patient can receive a new prescription, as compared with 
simply destroying the previous prescriptions. The commenter asserted 
this would help to ensure that the previously-issued prescriptions will 
not be filled and diverted.
    DEA response: Neither the CSA nor the DEA regulations address what 
a patient should do with an unfilled prescription for a controlled 
substance. Thus, regardless of whether the practitioner writes a single 
prescription or issues multiple prescriptions at the same time under 
the Final Rule being issued today, there is no mandatory procedure for 
handling unfilled prescriptions. In all situations, however, 
practitioners should use common sense in determining what steps are 
appropriate to prevent diversion in view of the particular patient's 
circumstances. While not required under the CSA or DEA regulations, it 
would be acceptable--and may even be the preferred practice--for a 
practitioner to ask the patient to return unfilled prescriptions for 
controlled substances, or for a patient to voluntarily do so.
    Pharmacies and dispensing of sequential prescriptions: One 
commenter recommended that DEA clarify what a pharmacy is permitted to 
do if a prescription is written for 30 days and the month has 31 days 
(e.g., a prescription for 30 days with ``Do not fill'' before dates of 
10/18/yy, 11/18/yy, 12/18/yy, but October has 31 days). The commenter 
also asked whether a pharmacist who fills a sequential prescription a 
day before the date stated because the pharmacy will be closed on the 
date the sequential prescription may be filled (e.g., Sunday) would be 
violating the regulation. Other commenters asked similar questions as 
to whether a pharmacist may fill sequential prescriptions earlier than 
the date specified by the prescribing practitioner. One commenter 
requested that DEA allow some language for a pharmacist's ``good 
judgment'' rather than having as an absolute that sequential 
prescriptions cannot be filled before the ``Do not fill'' date. At the 
very least, the commenter recommended that DEA include a statement of 
its intent to use enforcement discretion in these cases. Two commenters 
recommended that DEA clarify whether pharmacists can fill a sequential 
prescription before the ``Do not fill'' date (1) if the practitioner 
has not been contacted and (2) if the practitioner has been contacted. 
Three commenters requested that DEA clarify whether pharmacies are held 
accountable for filling the sequential prescriptions before the 
indicated date. Two commenters suggested that the Final Rule clarify 
any implications or responsibilities for the dispensing pharmacy.
    DEA response: As explained in the NPRM, the requirements contained 
in the proposed rule were included to ensure that the rule can be 
reconciled with the text, purpose, and structure of the CSA. This 
includes, but is not limited to, adherence to the principles of 
requiring a written prescription for a schedule II controlled 
substance,

[[Page 64926]]

maintaining clear accountability by practitioners when prescribing 
controlled substances, and ensuring adequate safeguards to prevent 
diversion and abuse. The Final Rule being issued today states expressly 
that, where a practitioner has issued multiple prescriptions in 
accordance with the rule, no pharmacist may fill any prescription 
before the date specified by the practitioner. The rule contains no 
exceptions to this requirement. In addition, because the CSA states 
that prescriptions for schedule II controlled substances must be 
written (21 U.S.C. 829(a)), the essential elements of the prescription 
written by the practitioner (such as the name of the controlled 
substance, strength, dosage form, and quantity prescribed, and--in the 
case of multiple prescriptions under this Final Rule--the earliest date 
on which the prescription may be filled) may not be modified orally.

Changes to Regulatory Text

    Section 1306.12: Some commenters suggested revising the proposed 
rule to state that multiple prescriptions do not constitute refills.
    DEA response: DEA believes such a revision is unnecessary as it is 
clear from the text of the rule that it is permissible to issue 
multiple prescriptions in the manner specified in the rule.
    Use of the term ``properly'': Section 1306.12(b)(1)(i) of the 
proposed rule read: ``The individual practitioner properly determines 
there is a legitimate medical purpose for the patient to be prescribed 
that controlled substance and the individual practitioner is acting in 
the usual course of professional practice.'' Several commenters 
suggested removing the word ``properly'' here, asserting that the use 
of the word ``properly'' in this context is unclear or modifies the 
meaning of the longstanding requirement that a controlled substance be 
dispensed for a legitimate medical purpose by a practitioner acting in 
the usual course of professional practice.
    DEA response: Although the language of the proposed rule was meant 
simply to reiterate (and not modify) the meaning of the longstanding 
requirement that a controlled substance be dispensed for a legitimate 
medical purpose by a practitioner acting in the usual course of 
professional practice, DEA has decided to revise section 
1306.12(b)(1)(i) in view of the comments. Specifically, DEA has revised 
this paragraph to more closely track the pertinent language contained 
in the longstanding regulation 21 CFR 1306.04(a). The paragraph being 
finalized today reads: ``Each separate prescription is issued for a 
legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the 
usual course of professional practice.''
    Section 1306.12(b)(1)(iii): Section 1306.12(b)(1)(iii) of the 
proposed rule stated: ``The individual practitioner concludes that 
providing the patient with multiple prescriptions in this manner does 
not create an undue risk of diversion or abuse.'' Several commenters 
objected to this provision, asserting that its meaning is unclear or 
that it imposes an undue burden on practitioners to prevent diversion 
and abuse. One commenter requested that DEA state whether this imposes 
a new standard on practitioners.
    Eleven commenters recommended deleting the paragraph in its 
entirety. Commenters believed that the practitioner cannot account for 
all possible scenarios in making this conclusion. Commenters stated 
that the potential liability problem for practitioners is that their 
conclusions and prescribing actions could come into question any time a 
patient was implicated in abuse or diversion. Commenters believed that 
practitioners will waste valuable patient time documenting why issuing 
sequential prescriptions does not cause undue risk. Commenters believed 
it could also cause the unintended consequences of practitioners 
avoiding prescribing a medication the patient needs for fear of 
liability in court. Commenters argued that sequential prescriptions, in 
limiting the quantity of controlled substances prescribed at one time, 
supposedly decrease the potential for abuse/diversion.
    DEA response: Since the inception of the CSA, it has always been a 
requirement that all DEA registrants (manufacturers, distributors, 
practitioners, pharmacies, researchers, importers and exporters) take 
reasonable steps to prevent their DEA registrations from being used in 
a manner that results in an undue risk of diversion. This requirement 
is inherent in the CSA registration provisions (21 U.S.C. 823) as well 
as the DEA regulations. For example, 21 CFR 1301.71 states: ``All * * * 
registrants shall provide effective controls to guard against theft and 
diversion of controlled substances.'' It bears emphasis that the Final 
Rule being issued today in no way changes this requirement. Under this 
Final Rule, practitioners who prescribe controlled substances are 
subject to the same standard in preventing diversion as they always 
have been under the CSA and DEA regulations. Section 1306.12(b)(1)(iii) 
of this Final Rule is intended to make clear that a practitioner may 
not simply comply with the other requirements of this Final Rule while 
turning a blind eye to circumstances that might be indicative of 
diversion. Thus, section 1306.12(b)(1)(iii) merely underscores that the 
longstanding requirement of providing effective controls against 
diversion remains in effect when issuing multiple schedule II 
prescriptions in accordance with this Final Rule.
    Further, as DEA stated in the Policy Statement (71 FR 52716), 
published alongside the NPRM, ``one cannot provide an exhaustive and 
foolproof list of `dos and don'ts' when it comes to prescribing 
controlled substances for pain or any other medical purpose.'' Just as 
DEA cannot provide an exhaustive list of ``dos and don'ts'' to 
elaborate on the phrase ``legitimate medical purpose in the usual 
course of professional practice,'' the agency cannot expand upon the 
general requirement that practitioners take reasonable steps to prevent 
diversion by setting forth a list of every hypothetical scenario a 
practitioner might encounter along with specific instructions on how 
the practitioner should handle the situation. DEA has an obligation to 
carry out all regulatory requirements in a reasonable manner, 
consistent with the governing statutes enacted by Congress, and to take 
into account all circumstances of the particular case at issue. The 
agency will do so with regard to all aspects of this Final Rule, 
including section 1306.12(b)(1)(iii).
    Section 1306.12(b)(2): Section 1306.12(b)(2) of the proposed rule 
contained the statement:

    Nothing in this paragraph (b) shall be construed as mandating or 
encouraging individual practitioners to issue multiple prescriptions 
or to see their patients only once every 90 days when prescribing 
Schedule II controlled substances. Rather, individual practitioners 
must determine on their own, based on sound medical judgment, and in 
accordance with established medical standards, whether it is 
appropriate to issue multiple prescriptions and how often to see 
their patients when doing so.

In this context, two commenters suggested deleting the words ``in 
accordance with established medical standards.'' The commenters 
indicated they were not aware of any standards that a practitioner 
could use to determine whether it is appropriate to issue multiple 
prescriptions.
    DEA response: The requirement that a prescription for a controlled 
substance be issued in accordance with established medical standards 
has been an integral part of federal law for decades and has been 
upheld by the

[[Page 64927]]

United States Supreme Court.\1\ This requirement applies to all 
controlled substances and applies regardless of whether a practitioner 
issues a single prescription or multiple prescriptions in accordance 
with this Final Rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ United States v. Moore, 423 U.S. 122, 139-142 (1975).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Pharmacies and dispensing of sequential prescriptions: In section 
1306.14, Labeling of substances and filling of prescriptions, DEA 
proposed the following new paragraph (e): ``Where a prescription that 
has been prepared in accordance with section 1306.12(b) contains 
instructions from the prescribing practitioner indicating that the 
prescription shall not be filled until a certain date, no pharmacist 
may fill the prescription before that date.''
    One commenter suggested the following additional language to 
section 1306.14(e): ``No pharmacist or pharmacy including mail order 
operations may auto-fill any additional prescriptions for schedule II 
drugs before verifying that the patient is still in need of each 
prescription refill.''
    DEA response: It has always been the case under the CSA and DEA 
regulations that a pharmacist who fills a prescription for a controlled 
substance has a corresponding responsibility to ensure that the 
prescription was issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an 
individual practitioner acting in the usual course of professional 
practice. This requirement, which is set forth in 21 CFR 1306.04(a), is 
one of the primary legal bases upon which pharmacists are held 
accountable under the CSA. DEA believes it is not necessary to modify 
or expand upon this longstanding requirement in the context of multiple 
schedule II prescriptions, so long as the prescribing and filling of 
such prescriptions takes place in accordance with all the provisions of 
this Final Rule.

Other Issues

    Electronically transmitted prescriptions: Four commenters 
recommended DEA allow electronically transmitted prescriptions for 
controlled substances.
    DEA response: DEA notes that the electronic prescribing of 
controlled substances is outside the scope of this rulemaking. DEA 
intends to address electronic prescribing of controlled substances in a 
separate future rulemaking.
    Authorization to use sequential prescriptions prior to publication 
of Final Rule: Two commenters requested that DEA allow practitioners to 
begin issuing multiple schedule II prescriptions based on the issuance 
of the NPRM (without waiting for a Final Rule to be published and to 
take effect).
    DEA response: Under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), when an 
agency seeks to impose a new substantive rule that modifies legal 
obligations of members of the public, the agency must first engage in 
notice-and-comment rulemaking (5 U.S.C. 553(b)). The APA further 
provides that substantive rules may not take effect until at least 30 
days after publication of the final rule (5 U.S.C. 553(d)). Exceptions 
to these procedural requirements can be made only ``when the agency for 
good cause finds (and incorporates the finding and a brief statement of 
reasons therefor in the rules issued) that notice and public procedure 
thereon are impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public 
interest'' (5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B)). DEA has not found that there is such a 
legal justification to exempt this Final Rule from the basic procedural 
requirements of the APA. Accordingly, this Final Rule does not take 
effect until the effective date indicated herein (December 19, 2007).
    Long Term Care Facilities: One commenter asked if this rule will 
apply to patients in long term care facilities.
    DEA response: The DEA regulations contain a variety of provisions 
relating to the dispensing of controlled substances at long term care 
facilities. These provisions are unaltered by this Final Rule. This 
Final Rule may be utilized in the context of a long term care facility, 
provided such activity complies with any other applicable provisions of 
the DEA regulations.
    Miscellaneous: One commenter recommended that DEA make one federal 
rule regarding prescriptions to supersede the many different state 
laws.
    DEA response: Under the CSA, Congress envisioned that the Federal 
and State Governments would work in tandem to regulate activities 
relating to controlled substances. This is reflected in 21 U.S.C. 903, 
which indicates that Congress did not intend to preempt state 
controlled substance laws, so long as such state laws do not conflict 
with federal law. Thus, each state may enact controlled substance laws 
that go beyond the requirements of the CSA, provided such laws do not 
conflict with the CSA. Given this aspect of the CSA, it would not be 
appropriate for DEA to seek to preempt or supersede state laws relating 
to the prescribing of controlled substances, provided such laws do not 
conflict with the CSA or DEA regulations.
    One commenter suggested DEA work with other federal agencies and 
national professional medical societies to be certain doctors are 
screening for alcoholism and drug addiction in their private medical 
practices as they are prescribing schedule II controlled substances in 
the treatment of legitimate medical illnesses.
    DEA response: DEA firmly supports all efforts of practitioners to 
screen for factors that might be indicative of whether the patient may 
be likely to seek controlled substances for purposes of abuse or to 
satisfy an addiction. However, such a consideration is beyond the scope 
of this Final Rule. Persons interested in such considerations might 
wish to review the Policy Statement, which was published in the Federal 
Register alongside the NPRM (71 FR 52716).
    Three commenters recommended that DEA explain existing law and the 
impact of the new rule to health care professionals, state attorneys 
general, drug control officials, and professional licensing and 
regulatory boards.
    DEA response: DEA works cooperatively with a wide variety of 
organizations who have an interest in the CSA and DEA regulations and 
policies, including, but not limited to: State Boards of Medicine and 
Boards of Pharmacy; law enforcement; regulatory and professional 
licensing authorities and agencies; the pharmaceutical industry; and 
professional organizations representing prescribing and dispensing 
practitioners. DEA meets regularly with these organizations to discuss 
matters of mutual concern. Included in these meetings are discussions 
of DEA legal and regulatory activities.
    One commenter suggested allowing partial filling of schedule II 
prescriptions so as not to constitute a refill.
    DEA response: The DEA regulations delineate the circumstances under 
which the partial filling of a prescription for a controlled substance 
in schedule II is permissible (21 CFR 1306.13). Adherence to this 
aspect of the DEA regulations serves a critical function in preventing 
diversion of schedule II controlled substances. Accordingly, this Final 
Rule does not modify the requirements of the DEA regulations relating 
to the partial filling of prescriptions.

Objections to Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

    Treatment of Pain Patients: Nineteen commenters opposed the NPRM 
because they believed that, for a patient who is receiving controlled 
substances for the treatment of pain, the practitioner should see the 
patient more than once every 90 days to properly monitor the

[[Page 64928]]

patient's condition and whether that patient is responding well to the 
medication. These commenters asserted that such a patient should see 
the practitioner every 30 days because treatment for pain does not 
consist of medication alone.
    One commenter stated that he had a family member who became 
addicted to schedule II controlled substances that were prescribed for 
pain and whose quality of life diminished significantly as a result. 
This commenter therefore objected to ``slackening the restrictions on 
these highly addictive and destructive drugs.''
    DEA response: DEA recognizes, as these comments reflect, that some 
practitioners believe that seeing a patient who is receiving controlled 
substances only once every 90 days is inadequate. However, the CSA does 
not expressly address how frequently a practitioner must see a patient 
when prescribing controlled substances. At the same time, practitioners 
who prescribe controlled substances must see their patients in an 
appropriate time and manner so as to meet their obligation to prescribe 
only for a legitimate medical purpose in the usual course of 
professional practice and to thereby minimize the likelihood that 
patients will abuse, or become addicted to, the controlled substances. 
In this regard, section 1306.12(b)(2) of this Final Rule states:

    Nothing in this section shall be construed as mandating or 
encouraging individual practitioners to issue multiple prescriptions 
or to see their patients only once every 90 days when prescribing 
Schedule II controlled substances. Rather, individual practitioners 
must determine on their own, based on sound medical judgment, and in 
accordance with established medical standards, whether it is 
appropriate to issue multiple prescriptions and how often to see 
their patients when doing so.

    Diversion: One commenter opposed the NPRM, asserting that a 
practitioner cannot always tell whether he or she is ``getting 
scammed'' by a patient seeking drugs for abuse. This commenter 
suggested that, if a practitioner is being deceived by such a patient, 
the harm will be less if the prescription is only for a 30-day supply 
of a controlled substance (rather than a 90-day supply). Another 
commenter opposed the NPRM because the commenter believed that drug 
abusers will change the dates on the multiple prescriptions and have 
all the multiple prescriptions filled at once by different pharmacies. 
Another commenter, who indicated she worked in a pharmacy, expressed 
the view that drug addicts will see multiple practitioners in a 90-day 
period to obtain overlapping 90-day supplies of schedule II controlled 
substances.
    DEA response: It is true that, other factors being equal, the 
diversion of a 90-day supply of controlled substances causes greater 
harm than the diversion of a 30-day supply. Likewise, the adverse 
effects of any improper conduct on the part of a drug-seeking patient 
(such as ``doctor shopping'' or seeing multiple prescribing 
practitioners) will be magnified if the patient is receiving a 90-day 
supply of a schedule II controlled substance as opposed to a 30-day 
supply. However, for the reasons provided in responding to the 
preceding comments, DEA believes it is appropriate to allow for up to a 
90-day supply of schedule II controlled substances under the conditions 
set forth in this Final Rule--with the understanding that 90 days is 
the upper limit and by no means mandatory. To the contrary, as this 
Final Rule indicates, the practitioner must determine on his/her own, 
on a case-by-case basis, based on sound medical judgment, and in 
accordance with established medical standards, the appropriate amounts 
of schedule II controlled substances to prescribe.
    Possibility of increased pressure on prescribing practitioners: 
Some commenters expressed the view that implementation of the proposed 
rule will result in practitioners receiving an increased number of 
``demands'' by patients to receive a 90-day supply of controlled 
substances. As a result, these commenters asserted practitioners might 
feel undue pressure to prescribe a 90-day supply of controlled 
substances at each office visit.
    DEA response: Given this important concern, DEA repeats for 
emphasis the following statement in this Final Rule:

    Nothing in this [Final Rule] shall be construed as mandating or 
encouraging individual practitioners to issue multiple prescriptions 
or to see their patients only once every 90 days when prescribing 
Schedule II controlled substances. Rather, individual practitioners 
must determine on their own, based on sound medical judgment, and in 
accordance with established medical standards, whether it is 
appropriate to issue multiple prescriptions and how often to see 
their patients when doing so.

    It is indeed essential that practitioners adhere to the above-
quoted provision and not simply--based on pressure from patients or any 
other improper reason--feel obligated to provide multiple prescriptions 
totaling a 90-day supply of schedule II controlled substances. Toward 
this end, practitioners may wish to refer their patients to the above-
quoted provision if they believe doing so will be beneficial.
    Appropriateness of this rule in view of the extent of prescription 
controlled substance abuse in the United States: Among those commenters 
who objected to the proposed rule, many pointed to the alarming 
increase in prescription controlled substance abuse in the United 
States and resulting deaths and harm to the public welfare. Such 
commenters expressed the view that the proposed rule--or any other 
lessening of drug controls--will exacerbate the problem.
    DEA response: DEA shares the concerns of those who are deeply 
troubled by the increasing levels of prescription controlled substance 
abuse in the United States and the resulting detriment to the public 
health and welfare of the American people. DEA addressed these concerns 
in depth in the September 6, 2006, Policy Statement that was published 
in conjunction with the proposed rule, and the agency encourages those 
interested in this topic to review that document. To minimize the 
likelihood that this Final Rule will exacerbate the extensive problem 
of prescription controlled substance abuse in the United States, DEA 
has reiterated in the text of the regulation several important and 
longstanding legal principles. Among these are the requirements that 
``Each separate prescription is issued for a legitimate medical purpose 
by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of 
professional practice'' and that ``The individual practitioner 
concludes that providing the patient with multiple prescriptions in 
this manner does not create an undue risk of diversion or abuse.'' In 
addition, as stated repeatedly above, nothing in this Final Rule shall 
be construed as mandating or encouraging individual practitioners to 
issue multiple prescriptions or to see their patients only once every 
90 days when prescribing schedule II controlled substances; rather, 
individual practitioners must determine on their own, based on sound 
medical judgment, and in accordance with established medical standards, 
whether it is appropriate to issue multiple prescriptions and how often 
to see their patients when doing so. It is with the understanding that 
adherence to all of these principles is essential that DEA has 
concluded that implementation of this Final Rule is consistent with the 
overall structure of the CSA and DEA's mission.
    Methadone: Among the commenters who objected to the proposed rule, 
several mentioned the prescribing of methadone in particular and the 
significant number of deaths that have resulted from methadone abuse. 
These

[[Page 64929]]

commenters expressed concern that the proposed rule would lead to even 
more deaths from methadone abuse.
    DEA response: DEA shares the concerns of those commenters who 
pointed to the unique and significant problems associated with 
methadone abuse. In view of these concerns, DEA repeats the following 
statement from the September 6, 2006, Policy Statement that was 
published in conjunction with the proposed rule:

    Methadone, a schedule II controlled substance, has been approved 
by the [Food and Drug Administration (FDA)] as an analgesic. While a 
physician must have a separate DEA registration to dispense 
methadone for maintenance or detoxification, no separate 
registration is required to prescribe methadone for pain. However, 
in a document entitled ``Methadone-Associated Mortality: Report of a 
National Assessment,'' [The Department of Health and Human Services, 
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration] recently 
recommended that ``physicians need to understand methadone's 
pharmacology and appropriate use, as well as specific indications 
and cautions to consider when deciding whether to use this 
medication in the treatment of pain.'' \2\ This recommendation was 
made in light of mortality rates associated with methadone.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ CSAT Publication No. 28-03. Available at http://dpt.samhsa.gov/medications/methreports.aspx.

    Since 2003, the FDA has issued revised labeling for methadone 
analgesic products, and physician education and training curricula have 
been developed for methadone treatment.\3\ In 2007, SAMHSA convened an 
expert panel to consider the implications of methadone mortality.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ The FDA health advisory can be found at http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/advisory/methadone.htm and the package insert can be found 
at http://www.fda.gov/cder/foi/label/2006/006134s028lbl.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Conclusion

    As DEA discussed at the beginning of this document, the vast 
majority of comments received regarding this rulemaking were supportive 
of its adoption. Two hundred thirty-one of the 264 comments received 
supported this action. As DEA noted previously, this rulemaking was 
supported by a wide variety of individuals and organizations--medical 
professionals, patient advocacy organizations, and patients themselves. 
To reiterate, the majority of commenters believed this Final Rule would 
be beneficial from both physical and financial perspectives, citing the 
time and money saved due to less frequent visits to prescribing 
practitioners, and the reduced physical toll resulting from the reduced 
visits. While many commenters sought clarification regarding various 
aspects of this rulemaking, it is important to reiterate the 
overwhelmingly positive reaction this rule generated.
    DEA, state authorities, practitioners, and pharmacists all share a 
common interest in ensuring that controlled substances are prescribed 
for legitimate medical purposes by prescribing practitioners acting in 
the usual course of professional practice. As discussed throughout this 
document, DEA, through its enforcement of the CSA and its implementing 
regulations, must prevent the diversion and abuse of controlled 
substances while ensuring that there is an adequate supply for 
legitimate medical purposes. DEA supports the intent of this Final Rule 
to address patients' needs for schedule II controlled substances while 
preventing the diversion of those substances. DEA believes that this 
Final Rule provides an option for practitioners to treat their 
patients, which is legally permissible and consistent with the text, 
structure, and purposes of the CSA.

Regulatory Certifications

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Deputy Administrator hereby certifies that this rulemaking has 
been drafted in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 
U.S.C. 601-612), has reviewed this regulation, and by approving it 
certifies that this regulation will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. This rule provides an 
additional option that practitioners may utilize when prescribing 
schedule II controlled substances under certain circumstances. The rule 
will not mandate any new procedures. Therefore, a regulatory 
flexibility analysis is not required for this rule.

Executive Order 12866

    The Deputy Administrator further certifies that this rulemaking has 
been drafted in accordance with the principles in Executive Order 
12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, Section 1(b). This rule has been 
deemed a ``significant regulatory action.'' Accordingly, this rule has 
been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget.

Executive Order 12988

    This regulation meets the applicable standards set forth in 
Sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988 Civil Justice 
Reform.

Executive Order 13132

    This rule does not preempt or modify any provision of state law; 
nor does it impose enforcement responsibilities on any state; nor does 
it diminish the power of any state to enforce its own laws. 
Accordingly, this rulemaking does not have federalism implications 
warranting the application of Executive Order 13132.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    This rule will not result in the expenditure by state, local, and 
tribal governments, in the aggregate, or by the private sector, of 
$120,000,000 or more (adjusted for inflation) in any one year, and will 
not significantly or uniquely affect small governments. Therefore, no 
actions were deemed necessary under the provisions of the Unfunded 
Mandates Reform Act of 1995.

Congressional Review Act

    This rule is not a major rule as defined by Section 804 of the 
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (Congressional 
Review Act). This rule will not result in an annual effect on the 
economy of $100,000,000 or more; a major increase in costs or prices; 
or significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, 
productivity, innovation, or on the ability of United States-based 
companies to compete with foreign-based companies in domestic and 
export markets.

List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 1306

    Drug traffic control, Prescription drugs.

0
Pursuant to the authority vested in the Attorney General under sections 
201, 202, and 501(b) of the CSA (21 U.S.C. 811, 812, and 871(b)), 
delegated to the Deputy Administrator pursuant to section 501(a) (21 
U.S.C. 871(a)) and as specified in 28 CFR 0.100 and 0.104, Appendix to 
Subpart R, the Deputy Administrator hereby orders that Title 21 of the 
Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1306, be amended as follows:

PART 1306--PRESCRIPTIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 1306 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 21 U.S.C. 821, 829, 871(b), unless otherwise noted.

0
2. Section 1306.12 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  1306.12  Refilling prescriptions; issuance of multiple 
prescriptions.

    (a) The refilling of a prescription for a controlled substance 
listed in Schedule II is prohibited.

[[Page 64930]]

    (b)(1) An individual practitioner may issue multiple prescriptions 
authorizing the patient to receive a total of up to a 90-day supply of 
a Schedule II controlled substance provided the following conditions 
are met:
    (i) Each separate prescription is issued for a legitimate medical 
purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of 
professional practice;
    (ii) The individual practitioner provides written instructions on 
each prescription (other than the first prescription, if the 
prescribing practitioner intends for that prescription to be filled 
immediately) indicating the earliest date on which a pharmacy may fill 
each prescription;
    (iii) The individual practitioner concludes that providing the 
patient with multiple prescriptions in this manner does not create an 
undue risk of diversion or abuse;
    (iv) The issuance of multiple prescriptions as described in this 
section is permissible under the applicable state laws; and
    (v) The individual practitioner complies fully with all other 
applicable requirements under the Act and these regulations as well as 
any additional requirements under state law.
    (2) Nothing in this paragraph (b) shall be construed as mandating 
or encouraging individual practitioners to issue multiple prescriptions 
or to see their patients only once every 90 days when prescribing 
Schedule II controlled substances. Rather, individual practitioners 
must determine on their own, based on sound medical judgment, and in 
accordance with established medical standards, whether it is 
appropriate to issue multiple prescriptions and how often to see their 
patients when doing so.

0
3. Section 1306.14 is amended by adding a new paragraph (e) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  1306.14  Labeling of substances and filling of prescriptions.

* * * * *
    (e) Where a prescription that has been prepared in accordance with 
section 1306.12(b) contains instructions from the prescribing 
practitioner indicating that the prescription shall not be filled until 
a certain date, no pharmacist may fill the prescription before that 
date.

    Dated: November 7, 2007.
Michele M. Leonhart,
Deputy Administrator.
 [FR Doc. E7-22558 Filed 11-16-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-09-P