For CIII-V medications, how long is a prescription valid for?

A prescription for Schedule III to V controlled substances in Oregon is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance or until 5 refills have been dispensed, whichever occurs first. This rule is in place to ensure proper oversight and monitoring of controlled substances, balancing accessibility for patients with the need to prevent misuse or diversion.

The limitation on both the duration of validity and the number of refills ensures that patients are regularly evaluated by their prescribers to determine the ongoing need for the medication. This is particularly important for medications that carry a risk for abuse or dependence, as is the case with these controlled substances.

In contexts where prescriptions might remain valid indefinitely or have a longer duration, or where there are no limits on refills, the potential for misuse increases. The 6-month timeframe and the limit of 5 refills create a structured approach to prescribing these types of medications, promoting patient safety and encouraging appropriate medical oversight.