Controlled Substance Regulations in Georgia

What are the controlled substances schedules and how do they affect prescription medications in Georgia?

In Georgia, controlled substances are classified into schedules I-V, with I being the most restrictive and V being the least restrictive. Schedule I drugs are illegal and have no accepted medical use; Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse and potential for psychological or physical dependence; Schedule III drugs have less potential for abuse than Schedules I and II, but still have potential for psychological or physical dependence; Schedule IV drugs have a low potential for abuse relative to Schedule III drugs and have accepted medical use; and Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse relative to the other schedules and include certain preparations containing limited amounts of certain narcotics.

Prescription medications in Georgia are subject to the same restrictions as controlled substances, and must be dispensed in accordance with Georgia law. Prescriptions for any controlled substance must be issued in writing by a licensed medical practitioner or dentist, contain the practitioner’s name and address, the name of the patient, the name of the drug prescribed, the quantity prescribed, directions for use, and the date of issue. In addition, Schedule II drugs must be prescribed on a separate prescription form that includes additional information about the patient and guardian.

How do I dispose of expired or unused prescription medications in a safe and legal manner in Georgia?

In Georgia, residents can safely and legally dispose of expired or unused prescription medications through the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day as well as at permanent medication collection drop-off boxes located in certain pharmacies and police stations. Residents can also take advantage of certain mail-back programs or on-site collection events.

Are there restrictions on the prescription of opioid painkillers due to the opioid epidemic in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia has enacted a law that limits the number of days a physician can prescribe opioid painkillers. All initial prescriptions for opioids are now limited to a 7-day supply with no refills. In certain circumstances, a physician may prescribe up to 14 days of an opioid medication. The law also requires that physicians check the state’s prescription monitoring database before prescribing an opioid and requires the use of opioids as a last resort.

What is the process for obtaining a prescription for medical marijuana in Georgia?

The process for obtaining a prescription for medical marijuana in Georgia is complex. First, a patient must be diagnosed with one of eight qualifying conditions and must obtain certification from a physician licensed to practice in Georgia. The physician must then submit an application for the patient’s medical marijuana card to the Georgia Department of Public Health. In order to be approved, the patient must be 18 years of age or older and must have a valid Georgia driver’s license or state-issued ID card. Once approved, the patient will receive their medical marijuana card and can then purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries.

Are there limitations on the quantity of prescription medications that can be dispensed in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia has imposed a supply limit on the quantity of prescription drugs that can be dispensed. The limit is a thirty-day supply of the medication unless otherwise specified by the prescriber or pharmacist.

Is there a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) to prevent prescription drug abuse in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia has a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP). The Georgia Department of Public Health is responsible for administering the PDMP in the state. The PDMP collects, monitors, and stores information on controlled substance prescriptions that are filled in the state. It is designed to help prescribers and pharmacists identify and prevent prescription drug abuse, misuse, and diversion.

Can I legally purchase syringes and needles for personal use without a prescription in Georgia?

No. Georgia law requires a prescription for syringes and needles.

What are the penalties for possessing controlled substances without a valid prescription in Georgia?

Possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription is a criminal offense in Georgia and is punishable by time in jail or prison, probation, hefty fines, and other penalties. Depending on the amount and type of controlled substance involved, the penalties can range from a misdemeanor conviction with a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail and/or fines of up to $1,000, to a felony conviction with a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and/or fines of up to $100,000.

Is there a Good Samaritan law that provides immunity to individuals who seek help for a drug overdose in Georgia?

Yes, there is a Good Samaritan law in Georgia that provides immunity to individuals who seek help for a drug overdose. This law is called the Georgia Overdose Protection Act and it was passed in 2012. Under this law, individuals who seek medical attention for themselves or another person in the event of an overdose are not subject to arrest or criminal prosecution for possession of a controlled substance. The law also provides legal protection to individuals who provide naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

Do state laws allow for the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) pseudoephedrine products, and are there quantity restrictions in Georgia?

Yes, state laws in Georgia allow for the sale of OTC pseudoephedrine products. However, there are quantity restrictions in place. Under Georgia law, consumers are limited to the purchase of up to 3.6 grams of pseudoephedrine in any 30-day period, and no more than 9 grams in any calendar year. Additionally, consumers must provide their name and address when purchasing pseudoephedrine products.

Are there restrictions on the sale of certain cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM) to prevent abuse in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia has restrictions on the sale of certain cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM). According to the Georgia Board of Pharmacy, pharmacies in the state must obtain a written or electronic prescription for any medication that contains DXM. Additionally, anyone purchasing a DXM-containing medication must be at least 18 years of age.

What are the regulations for methadone clinics and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs in Georgia?

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) regulates methadone clinics and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs in the state. All MAT programs must be licensed by the DBHDD and must provide comprehensive services that are consistent with best practice guidelines. The DBHDD also requires that MAT programs participate in a quality assurance program, provide patient education, and adhere to state and federal laws. In addition, MAT programs must provide appropriate care and services to ensure safe use of medications and to ensure patients are taking medications as prescribed. Finally, MAT programs must have policies and procedures in place to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the public.

Can I legally purchase or possess synthetic cannabinoids (spice or K2) in Georgia?

No, it is illegal to possess, sell, or distribute synthetic cannabinoids (Spice or K2) in the state of Georgia. Possession of less than one ounce is considered a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 12 months in prison and a $1,000 fine. Possession of more than one ounce is considered a felony and can be punished by up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 fine. Selling or distributing any amount of synthetic cannabinoids is considered a felony and can be punished by up to 15 years in prison and a $150,000 fine.

What are the penalties for selling or trafficking illegal drugs in Georgia?

The penalties for selling or trafficking illegal drugs in Georgia are severe and can range from a minimum of one to five years in prison and fines up to $1 million. For more serious charges, sentences can be even greater, with terms of up to life in prison and fines up to $1 million. In addition, individuals convicted of selling or trafficking illegal drugs may face additional penalties, such as asset forfeiture, probation, community service, and substance abuse treatment.

Are there laws that address drug testing in the workplace in Georgia?

Yes, there are laws that address drug testing in the workplace in Georgia. According to the Georgia Department of Labor, employers may conduct drug tests on applicants and employees for the purpose of determining whether an individual is using, possessing, selling, distributing, or manufacturing unlawful drugs on the employer’s premises or during working hours. An employer may require drug testing as part of a pre-employment physical and/or after an employee is hired. Employers must also provide written notice of the drug testing policy and provide employees with a reasonable opportunity to discuss concerns or questions about the policy.

Can I legally possess drug paraphernalia, such as pipes or bongs, for personal use in Georgia?

No, it is illegal to possess drug paraphernalia, such as pipes or bongs, for personal use in Georgia. Possession of drug paraphernalia is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in prison.

Are there restrictions on the sale of prescription drugs through online pharmacies in Georgia?

Yes, there are restrictions on the sale of prescription drugs through online pharmacies in Georgia. Under Georgia law, online pharmacies must comply with the same standards that apply to traditional pharmacies. Additionally, all online pharmacies must be licensed in the state of Georgia and must require a valid prescription from a physician licensed in Georgia for any drug being dispensed.

Do state laws require pharmacies to provide naloxone (Narcan) without a prescription to prevent opioid overdoses in Georgia?

Yes, state laws in Georgia do require pharmacies to provide naloxone (Narcan) without a prescription to prevent opioid overdoses.

What are the regulations for the storage and handling of controlled substances in healthcare facilities in Georgia?

The regulations for the storage and handling of controlled substances in healthcare facilities in Georgia are outlined in the Georgia Controlled Substances Act. According to the Act, controlled substances must be stored in a secure, locked area that is inaccessible to unauthorized persons. The storage area must be well-lit, monitored, and have appropriate security measures in place. Access to the controlled substances must be limited to authorized personnel only. All controlled substances must be recorded in a secure logbook, and the records must be kept for at least two years. In addition, a designated pharmacist or pharmacy technician must supervise the storage and handling of controlled substances.

Is there a process for individuals to report suspected illegal drug activity to law enforcement in Georgia?

Yes, individuals may report suspected illegal drug activity to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). The GBI has an anonymous tip-line available for reporting suspected drug activity. Tips can be made via telephone, online, or by mail. Additionally, individuals may contact their local law enforcement agency directly.