SB 3431

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Controlled Substances Act. Provides that when issuing a prescription for an opiate to a patient 18 years of age or older for outpatient use for the first time, a practitioner may not issue a prescription for more than a 7-day supply. Provides that a practitioner may not issue an opiate prescription to a person under 18 years of age for more than a 7-day supply at any time and shall discuss with the parent or guardian of the person under 18 years of age the risks associated with opiate use and the reasons why the prescription is necessary. Provides that notwithstanding this provision, if, in the professional medical judgment of a practitioner, more than a 7-day supply of an opiate is required to treat the patient's acute medical condition or is necessary for the treatment of chronic pain management, pain associated with a cancer diagnoses, or for palliative care, then the practitioner may issue a prescription for the quantity needed to treat that acute medical condition, chronic pain, pain associated with a cancer diagnosis, or pain experienced while the patient is in palliative care. Provides that the condition triggering the prescription of an opiate for more than a 7-day supply shall be documented in the patient's medical record and the practitioner shall indicate that a non-opiate alternative was not appropriate to address the medical condition. Provides that these provisions do not apply to medications designed for the treatment of substance abuse or opioid dependence. Effective immediately.