Beginning October 6, 2014, a new DEA rule goes into effect that reclassifies all hydrocodone combination products (e.g., Vicodin®, Norco®, Loratab®, Vicoprofen®) from Schedule III to Schedule II controlled substances. This change is extremely important for a few reasons: (1) these products can no longer be telephoned into pharmacies by prescribers, but instead must have written prescriptions; (2) there are no refills permitted; and, (3) this reclassification will have a significant impact on prescribers and patients since this category of drug products is the most prescribed in this country.
The Ohio State Board of Pharmacy created a guidance document to help practitioners comply with state and federal controlled substance requirements impacted by the DEA rule.