REQUESTS FOR REPEAT DRUG OF DEPENDENCE PRESCRIPTIONS
Patients should be aware of their responsibilities in requesting prescriptions for drugs of dependence such as Opioid analgesia and benzodiazepines . These responsibilities are explained in the practice drugs of dependence policy for patients and in the ‘Patient agreement for drugs of dependence therapy’. Patients should note the following:
All requests for repeat scripts for drugs of dependence will go to your usual doctor.
All requests require a clinical review by your doctor. If it appears to your doctor that there is no improvement in your daily function or quality of life from the controlled substance, your medication may be discontinued.
As a patient, you agree to, and understand that, your usual doctor reserves the right to perform random or unannounced urine drug testing. This is a safety issue.
Patients are responsible for their prescriptions. Lost prescriptions will not be replaced.
Repeat prescriptions are generally written for a maximum of 3-month supply and will be filled at the same pharmacy.
Patients have the responsibility to schedule appointments for the next opioid prescription before leaving the clinic or within 3 days of the last clinic visit.
Patients have the responsibility for keeping medications in a safe and secure place, such as a locked cabinet or safe. If medications are lost, misplaced, or stolen your doctor may choose not to replace the medications or to taper and discontinue the medications.
Patients have the responsibility for taking medications as directed and understand that increasing the dose without the close supervision of your doctor could lead to the cessation of prescribing. Early requests for repeats scripts will not be performed.
Patients have the responsibility to set appointments to review ongoing therapy. This should be monthly and made at the last clinic appointment. No walk-in appointments for medication refills will be granted.
