What are the controlled substances schedules and how do they affect prescription medications in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the Controlled Substances Schedules are divided into five categories, which are based on the potential for abuse and accepted medical use.Schedule I drugs are those substances that have a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use in the United States. These drugs are not available for prescription in North Carolina.
Schedule II drugs are those substances that have a high potential for abuse and a currently accepted medical use in the U.S. These drugs have a high risk of physical or psychological dependence and must be prescribed by a physician via authorized prescription form and monitored by the state.
Schedule III drugs have less potential for abuse than Schedule II drugs, but still have a risk of physical or psychological dependence. These drugs may be prescribed by licensed practitioners, but additional record keeping and restrictions apply.
Schedule IV drugs have a low potential for abuse and are used in the treatment of various medical conditions, but still have some risk of psychological or physical dependence. These drugs may be prescribed by licensed practitioners, but certain restrictions apply.
Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and are mainly used to treat certain medical conditions. These drugs can be sold over-the-counter or via prescription with certain restrictions in place.
How do I dispose of expired or unused prescription medications in a safe and legal manner in North Carolina?
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) recommends several options for disposing of expired or unused prescription medications in a safe and legal manner. These include:1. Take advantage of community drug take-back days, which are often hosted by local law enforcement and health organizations.
2. Utilize a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-authorized collector.
3. Contact your local solid waste management or environmental health service department to inquire about local pharmaceutical waste disposal programs.
4. Purchase a medication disposal system from a pharmacy or online retailer.
5. Follow the instructions on the medication label to properly dispose of the medication at home, if it is safe and legal to do so (e.g., put pills in a sealed bag and throw them away in the trash).
Are there restrictions on the prescription of opioid painkillers due to the opioid epidemic in North Carolina?
Yes, there are restrictions on the prescription of opioid painkillers due to the opioid epidemic in North Carolina. The state has introduced a series of initiatives designed to reduce opioid-related deaths and overdoses, including stricter prescribing limits, improved access to naloxone, and enhanced public education and awareness efforts. The state also requires healthcare providers to take additional steps before prescribing opioids, such as conducting a risk assessment and establishing a treatment agreement with the patient. In addition, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has established an Opioid Misuse and Overdose Prevention (OMOP) Program to provide resources for providers, patients, and family members on opioid misuse and overdose prevention.What is the process for obtaining a prescription for medical marijuana in North Carolina?
Unfortunately, medical marijuana is not legal in North Carolina. However, in July 2020, North Carolina passed Senate Bill 315 which allows for the use of hemp extract to treat intractable epilepsy. To obtain hemp extract, individuals must receive a written certification from a neurologist who is registered with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. The neurologist must be able to certify that the patient has been diagnosed with intractable epilepsy and has not responded to at least three other treatments. The neurologist must also explain the potential benefits and possible risks of using hemp extract, and the patient must provide informed consent. Once the neurologist has given the written certification, the patient may then apply for a Hemp Extract Registration Card from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.Are there limitations on the quantity of prescription medications that can be dispensed in North Carolina?
Yes, there are. In North Carolina, no more than a 30-day supply of a prescription medication may be dispensed without a new or refilled prescription, with a few exceptions. Any medication that is a controlled substance must be filled no more than seven days before the date on the prescription. Additionally, for certain drugs, additional restrictions on the amount that can be dispensed apply.Is there a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) to prevent prescription drug abuse in North Carolina?
Yes, North Carolina operates a PDMP, known as the North Carolina Controlled Substance Reporting System (NCCSRS). It is a real-time reporting system that collects and stores information on all prescriptions for controlled substances that are dispensed in the state. The program helps to identify potential prescription misuse and abuse.Can I legally purchase syringes and needles for personal use without a prescription in North Carolina?
No, syringes and needles are classified as Prescription Medical Devices in North Carolina and are therefore only available with a valid prescription from a medical professional.What are the penalties for possessing controlled substances without a valid prescription in North Carolina?
The penalties for possessing controlled substances without a valid prescription in North Carolina vary depending on the type of controlled substance and the amount in possession. Generally, possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription is a felony and carries a potential jail sentence and/or fine. The severity of the potential punishment depends on the amount of the controlled substance in possession, how it was obtained, and any prior criminal history.Is there a Good Samaritan law that provides immunity to individuals who seek help for a drug overdose in North Carolina?
Yes, North Carolina has a Good Samaritan law that provides immunity from prosecution for certain violations of the law to individuals who seek medical assistance for someone experiencing a drug overdose. The law applies to individuals who call 911 or other emergency services in response to an overdose, or those who accompany the individual to seek medical assistance.Do state laws allow for the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) pseudoephedrine products, and are there quantity restrictions in North Carolina?
Yes, state laws in North Carolina allow for the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) pseudoephedrine products, but with certain quantity restrictions. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, all retail pharmacies licensed in North Carolina must limit the sale of OTC pseudoephedrine products to 9 grams within a 30-day period, and consumers must have a valid photo ID in order to purchase products containing pseudoephedrine. In addition, retailers must also keep log books for each purchase of OTC pseudoephedrine products and are required to report suspicious orders to the State Board of Pharmacy.Are there restrictions on the sale of certain cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM) to prevent abuse in North Carolina?
Yes, there are restrictions on the sale of certain cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM) to prevent abuse in North Carolina. According to North Carolina state law, retailers must limit sales of products containing DXM to no more than four packages of any DXM-containing product per customer per day. Furthermore, retailers must keep records of all such sales for at least two years and must make them available to law enforcement upon request.What are the regulations for methadone clinics and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs in North Carolina?
The North Carolina Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services (DMH/DD/SAS) regulates methadone clinics and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs in North Carolina. Any clinic or program that provides methadone or other MAT services must have a certificate of approval (COA) from DMH/DD/SAS. The facilities must comply with the rules and regulations outlined in the COA in order to continue providing services.These regulations include, but are not limited to, patient assessment and care planning, medical and support staff qualifications, program organization and governance, providing patient education materials, and providing regular reports to the state. The clinics must also maintain patient records, provide urine drug testing, record patient progress, provide quality assurance processes, provide periodic performance reviews, and develop policies for patient safety.
The state also requires that all MAT providers develop a plan for preventing diversion of controlled substances and maintaining security of controlled substances. In addition, all MAT providers must have an emergency preparedness plan in place.
Can I legally purchase or possess synthetic cannabinoids (spice or K2) in North Carolina?
No, it is illegal to purchase or possess synthetic cannabinoids (spice or K2) in North Carolina. The state has a law specifically banning the possession, manufacture, sale, and distribution of these substances. Violating this law can result in serious consequences including fines and jail time.What are the penalties for selling or trafficking illegal drugs in North Carolina?
The penalties for selling or trafficking illegal drugs in North Carolina depend on the drug involved, the amount of drugs involved, and prior criminal record. Generally, possession of a controlled substance is a felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and fines up to $25,000. However, more serious charges may apply if the sale or trafficking involves large amounts of drugs. Trafficking in more than 400 grams of certain controlled substances carries a minimum sentence of 25 years in prison and fines up to $500,000. The sale or trafficking of drugs to a minor can carry even harsher penalties.Are there laws that address drug testing in the workplace in North Carolina?
Yes, there are laws that address drug testing in the workplace in North Carolina. The North Carolina Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1989 outlines the requirements for employers to establish a drug-free workplace. The act requires employers to have a written policy and a testing program that complies with federal and state laws. The policy must include information about the prohibited use of drugs and alcohol, the types of tests used, the consequences for violations of the policy, and other information. Employers must also provide employees with educational materials about the dangers of using drugs and alcohol.Can I legally possess drug paraphernalia, such as pipes or bongs, for personal use in North Carolina?
No, it is illegal to possess drug paraphernalia such as pipes or bongs for personal use in North Carolina. Possession of drug paraphernalia is a Class 1 misdemeanor and can result in a jail sentence of up to 120 days, and/or a fine of up to $1,000.Are there restrictions on the sale of prescription drugs through online pharmacies in North Carolina?
Yes, there are certain restrictions on the sale of prescription drugs through online pharmacies in North Carolina. These restrictions include:1. The online pharmacy must be licensed by the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy.
2. The pharmacy must have a valid DEA registration number.
3. The pharmacy must not dispense controlled substances without a valid prescription from a licensed practitioner in the state of North Carolina.
4. The pharmacy must comply with all federal and state laws and regulations, including HIPAA regulations.
5. The pharmacy must ensure that the patient is physically present in the state at the time of purchase in order to dispense a controlled substance.
6. The pharmacy must maintain appropriate records for all transactions and monitor them for potential fraudulent activity.
Do state laws require pharmacies to provide naloxone (Narcan) without a prescription to prevent opioid overdoses in North Carolina?
Yes, state laws in North Carolina require pharmacists to provide naloxone (Narcan) without a prescription for the prevention of opioid overdoses. Pharmacists are authorized to dispense naloxone to any individual at risk of experiencing an opioid-related overdose or anyone in a position to assist an individual at risk of an opioid-related overdose.What are the regulations for the storage and handling of controlled substances in healthcare facilities in North Carolina?
The North Carolina Board of Pharmacy has established regulations for the storage and handling of controlled substances in healthcare facilities. These regulations include:1. All controlled substances must be stored in a securely locked area.
2. All access to such areas must be documented.
3. There must be a designated Pharmacist or Nurse Practitioner responsible for the security, storage and dispensing of controlled substances.
4. Controlled substances must be stored in a manner that prevents unauthorized access.
5. Controlled substance waste must be disposed of in accordance with federal and state regulations.
6. A record-keeping system must be maintained which includes detailed logs for the receipt, dispensing and destruction of controlled substances and associated records.
English 
Spanish