Texas Senate Bill SB1644

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Refer: 3/23/11

Caption

Relating to the prescription of tamper-resistant opioid analgesic drugs; providing an administrative penalty.

Impact

The legislation is set to significantly impact state laws related to the prescription and dispensing of opioid analgesics, contributing to the ongoing efforts to combat opioid abuse and ensure safer medication practices. By establishing strict guidelines for substitutions, the bill aims to minimize the potential for misuse and enhance drug safety in the community. The Board of Pharmacy will be responsible for maintaining a comprehensive list of tamper-resistant drugs and ensuring compliance with the law, affecting both pharmacy operations and regulatory oversight.

Summary

SB1644 addresses the prescription of tamper-resistant opioid analgesic drugs and aims to regulate the interchange of these medications by pharmacists. The bill mandates that pharmacists cannot substitute prescribed tamper-resistant opioids with non-tamper-resistant alternatives unless certain conditions are met. Specifically, a pharmacist may substitute an opioid if the replacement is also on a list of approved tamper-resistant drugs established by the Texas State Board of Pharmacy and if the substitute provides similar tamper-resistant properties. Additionally, prior written consent from the prescribing physician is required for such substitutions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1644 is predominantly supportive among lawmakers prioritizing public health and safety, particularly in light of the growing opioid epidemic. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary safeguards against the abuse of opioid medications. However, there is some concern from pharmaceutical professionals regarding the logistical implications of strict substitution rules on their practice, which may complicate the dispensing process and potentially limit patients’ access to essential medications.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions around the practicalities of the bill's implementation, particularly how the Board of Pharmacy will curate and manage the list of tamper-resistant drugs. Additionally, some stakeholders maintain that the barriers placed on drug substitution could restrict pharmacists’ discretion and create additional burdens in patient care. The balance between enhancing drug safety and maintaining efficient pharmacy practices remains a key area of debate in the context of this legislation.