More DEA Rule Changes: Hydrocodone Combos move from CIII to CII

The DEA announced this change 8/22/14. All hydrocodone products will become Schedule II agents in 45 days. Chick here to view the final rule. https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2014/08/22/2014-19922/schedules-of-controlled-substances-rescheduling-of-hydrocodone-combination-products-from-schedule.

While Florida NPs are still denied the authority to write for any level of  controlled substances, it's important to let your legislators know that we are concerned about the impact this may have on patients who are prescribed these medications. Many Florida CS prescribers may be more reluctant now to continue to prescribe this as a CII drug. Make sure your patients are aware in order to transition to another drug if indicated. Also don't forget Tramadol is now a CIV - no Florida NP should be writing for this or re-filling it until we obtain legal authority from the DEA-soon we hope!