What is the maximum number of refills a prescriber can authorize for a 30-day supply of Schedule III-V controlled substances?

For Schedule III-V controlled substances, the maximum number of refills that a prescriber can authorize is five. This allowance is defined by federal regulations, specifically under the Controlled Substances Act. When a prescriber writes a prescription for a Schedule III-V medication, they can include a maximum of five refills over a period of six months from the date the prescription is issued, provided that the medication is still needed and it is safe to continue.

This limit is established to ensure proper monitoring of patient treatment and the potential risks associated with controlled substances, while still allowing adequate access for patients who may benefit from ongoing therapy. Therefore, when a prescriber indicates five refills, it means that the patient can obtain the medication multiple times, making it manageable for chronic conditions without needing to visit the prescriber every month.