Source: Medical Board E-News, March 1, 2016
There are now two rules addressing prescribing controlled substances for weight loss. One rule addresses short-term anorexiants and the other rule addresses U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications for chronic weight management.
Rule 4731-11-04 (effective February 29, 2016): Controlled Substances: utilization for short-term anorexiants for weight reduction:
- This rule addresses the use of schedule III or IV controlled substances approved by the FDA for utilization in weight loss “for a few weeks”
- The total course of treatment using that controlled substance shall not exceed 12 weeks. The rule also requires the physician to meet face to face with the patient every 30 days.
Rule 4731-11-04.1 (effective December 31, 2015): Controlled Substances: utilization for chronic weight management:
- This rule addresses the use of controlled substances approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. The medications must be used in compliance with the FDA-approved labeling. There is no time limit on the course of treatment.
- After the initial visit and two follow-up visits, the rule authorizes the physician to write refills or the physician may turn care over to a physician assistant or nurse practitioner.
Has the law in Ohio changed recently regarding long-term use (greater than 3 months) of phentermine and diethylpropion?