Controlled Substance Regulations in Missouri

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

Controlled substances schedules are categories of drugs based upon their acceptable medical use and potential for abuse or addiction. In Missouri, controlled substance schedules are regulated by the Missouri Pharmacy Act. Each schedule has specific requirements and regulations that must be followed when prescribing and dispensing the medication.

Schedule I drugs have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. These drugs include heroin, LSD, and marijuana.

Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse and accepted medical use with severe restrictions. These drugs include morphine, oxycodone, and cocaine.

Schedule III drugs have a lower potential for abuse and accepted medical use with some restrictions. These drugs include testosterone, hydrocodone, and anabolic steroids.

Schedule IV drugs have a low potential for abuse and accepted medical use with some restrictions. These drugs include diazepam, clonazepam, and carisoprodol.

Schedule V drugs have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV drugs and accepted medical use with very few restrictions. These drugs include cough medicines containing codeine, paregoric, and certain antidiarrheals.

The controlled substances schedules in Missouri affect prescription medications in the following ways: prescribers must be aware of the potential for abuse of each medication; they must follow all state regulations when prescribing medications; they must accurately document patients’ use of controlled substances; and they must monitor patients’ use of controlled substances to ensure safe use.

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

You can safely dispose of expired or unused prescription medications in Missouri by using drug take-back programs. You can also use the DEA-authorized mail-back program. You can contact your local law enforcement office to find out where the nearest drug take-back program is located. You can also check with local pharmacies, hospitals, or clinics to see if they offer a drug take-back program. If none of these options are available, you may flush certain medications down the toilet. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services provides a list of medications that can be safely flushed.

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

Yes, there are restrictions on the prescription of opioid painkillers due to the opioid epidemic in Missouri. In July 2019, the Missouri legislature passed HB 1673, which imposes limits on the amount of opioids doctors can prescribe patients for acute pain. Under the law, Missouri physicians cannot write a prescription for more than a seven-day supply of opioids for acute pain. Furthermore, the law also requires physicians to check the state’s prescription drug monitoring program before prescribing opioids.

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

1. Obtain a signed certification from a Missouri-licensed physician that you have been diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition.

2. Submit an application for a medical marijuana patient ID card with the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services (DHSS).

3. Wait for DHSS to process the application and issue a patient ID card.

4. Visit a Missouri-licensed dispensary and purchase medical marijuana with your patient ID card.

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

Yes. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services sets limits on the quantity of medications that can be dispensed. These limits can vary depending on the medication, type of medication, and prescriber’s preference. Generally, a prescription for a controlled substance cannot exceed a 72-hour supply.

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

Yes, Missouri has a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) to monitor and prevent prescription drug abuse. The PDMP is a secure, web-based monitoring system that tracks the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances, such as opioids, stimulants, and other potentially addictive medications. The PDMP is designed to identify individuals at risk of abuse or misuse of prescription drugs and provide health care providers with the necessary information to provide appropriate patient care.

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

No, you cannot legally purchase syringes and needles for personal use without a prescription in Missouri. Missouri law requires a prescription or physician authorization for the purchase of syringes and needles.

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

In Missouri, penalties for possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription vary depending on the type and amount of the controlled substance in question. Generally speaking, possession of a controlled substance is a felony offense, and the maximum penalties can range from 7 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine for a Class C felony to up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of $500,000 for a Class A felony. In addition, those convicted of possession may also be required to participate in a substance abuse treatment program.

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

No, there is no Good Samaritan law that provides immunity to individuals in Missouri who seek help for a drug overdose. However, Missouri does have a Good Samaritan law that provides limited criminal immunity to those who witness or experience a drug overdose and seek medical help for the person in need.

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

Yes, state laws allow for the sale of OTC pseudoephedrine products in Missouri. Pseudoephedrine products are sold in pharmacies and other outlets as either a single-ingredient product or as part of a combination product. Quantity restrictions vary by product and are based on the active ingredient amount. For example, Missouri consumers may purchase up to three and a half (3.5) grams of pseudoephedrine in a 24-hour period, up to nine (9) grams of pseudoephedrine in a thirty (30) day period, and up to forty-five (45) grams of pseudoephedrine in a twelve (12) month period. All purchases of pseudoephedrine products must be logged in the National Precursor Log Exchange (NPLEx), which is an electronic tracking system used by retailers to monitor the sale of these products.

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

Yes, there are restrictions on the sale of certain cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM) in Missouri. Under Missouri law, products containing DXM may not be sold to any person under 18 years of age. The product must also be sold in its original sealed packaging, and it must have an electronic or mechanical device designed to prevent the product from being opened without authorization. Additionally, retailers must keep a log of the sales of these products, including the purchaser’s name, address, date of birth, and driver’s license or other form of identification.

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

The Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) is responsible for regulating methadone clinics and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs in Missouri.

The DMH has established regulations to ensure that all MAT programs provide safe, effective and appropriate evidence-based care to those in need of addiction treatment in accordance with federal and state laws.

All methadone clinics must be licensed by the DMH and must adhere to the DMH regulations as outlined in the Missouri Code of Regulations, Chapter 8.

All MAT programs must provide comprehensive services to individuals accessing treatment and must include counseling, education, case management, and other support services.

All MAT programs must also provide drug testing as needed. In addition, all MAT program staff must receive specialized training before beginning work with clients.

All methadone clinics must adhere to the provisions of the Controlled Substances Act, which includes federal requirements for handling, dispensing, storing, and recordkeeping of controlled substances.

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

No, it is currently illegal to purchase or possess synthetic cannabinoids (spice or K2) in Missouri. A variety of laws have been passed banning the sale and use of these substances in the state.

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

The penalties for selling or trafficking illegal drugs in Missouri vary depending on the type and amount of drug involved. Generally, most drug offenses are felonies, which carry a maximum sentence of life in prison and/or large fines. Additionally, the sale or trafficking of certain drugs may also lead to the forfeiture of property used in the commission of the crime.

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

Yes, Missouri law does address drug testing in the workplace. The Missouri Drug and Alcohol Testing Act (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 287.780 et seq.) governs the process of drug testing in the workplace. The Act requires employers to provide written notice to employees regarding drug testing policies, and it also limits the circumstances in which an employer can require an employee to submit to a drug test. Additionally, the Act requires employers to follow certain procedures when testing employees, such as verifying the accuracy of the test results and providing an opportunity for the employee to challenge the results of the test.

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

No, it is illegal to possess drug paraphernalia such as pipes or bongs for personal use in Missouri. It is classified as a Class A Misdemeanor and punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.

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

Yes, there are restrictions on the sale of prescription drugs through online pharmacies in Missouri. Missouri’s Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) prohibits the sale or purchase of any prescription drug (or its generic equivalent) through any Internet pharmacy not licensed by the DHSS. Furthermore, a prescriber must provide written authorization for all prescriptions filled by an Internet pharmacy. Additionally, the pharmacy must be registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration before it can fill any prescription.

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

Yes, state law requires pharmacies to provide naloxone (Narcan) without a prescription to prevent opioid overdoses in Missouri. The legislation, which was passed in 2019, allows pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a prescription to individuals at risk of an opioid overdose, as well as their families and friends.

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

The regulations for the storage and handling of controlled substances in healthcare facilities in Missouri are outlined in the Missouri Controlled Substances Act (MCA). According to the MCA, a healthcare facility must register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and obtain a state controlled substance license. All controlled substances must be stored in a secure location, and access to the storage area must be limited to authorized personnel only. All controlled substances must be labeled properly and properly disposed of when no longer needed. The facility must also keep accurate records of all controlled substances stored, dispensed, or administered.

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

Yes, individuals can report suspected illegal drug activity to law enforcement in Missouri. Missouri residents can contact their local police department or sheriff’s office and provide as much information as possible about any suspected illegal drug activity. All information provided is confidential and will be investigated by law enforcement.