The following references and links support the buprenorphine barrier cards provided by P2P pharmacists during their visits and the on-demand webinar Red Flags in the Real World: Case-Based Scenarios for Buprenorphine Dispensing for Opioid Use Disorder.
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Recent Updates
Telemedicine
The DEA's Expansion of Buprenorphine Treatment via Telemedicine Encounter was scheduled to be effective February 18, 2025 but has been delayed to December 31, 2025. Notably, this delayed final rule will require pharmacists filling buprenorphine telemedicine prescriptions to verify that the identity of the individual picking up the prescription matches the name of the patient or a member of the patient’s household. Until December 31, 2025, prescribers and pharmacists will continue prescribing and dispensing buprenorphine under the Third Temporary Extension of COVID-19 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescription of Controlled Medications
A proposed rule, Special Registrations for Telemedicine and Limited State Telemedicine Registrations, which relates to telemedicine prescribing of all controlled substances is currently under review by the DEA. Until this proposed rule is finalized, the Third Temporary Extension of COVID-19 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescription of Controlled Medications is in effect until December 31, 2025.
See our Telemedicine page for more details.
Target Doses of Buprenorphine-Containing Transmucosal Products
On December 26, 2024, FDA issued a Federal Register notice to encourage changes to the labeling for buprenorphine-containing transmucosal products for the treatment of opioid use disorder and has issued a letter to health care professionals regarding the recommendations. The current buprenorphine label does not include a maximum daily dose. The suggested modifications include removing the term "target dose" and clarifying that doses higher than 24 mg per day may be appropriate for some patients.
State Buprenorphine Prescribing Regulations
The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure has proposed amendments to 201 KAR 9:270, which establishes professional standards for the prescribing of buprenorphine by physicians and PAs. KBML will hold a public hearing on March 26 and accept written comments through March 31. The current version of 201 KAR 9:270 remains in effect until the regulatory process is complete.
Overcoming Buprenorphine Barriers
KY Regulations Related to Buprenorphine
Professional Boards and Enforcement
- Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure
- (502) 429-7150
- Grievance information
- Kentucky Board of Nursing
- 502-429-3300
- Complaint information
- Drug Enforcement and Professional Practices Branch (DEPPB): (502) 564-7985
Red Flags
Suspicious Order Monitoring
- NABP and NCPA: The Pharmacy Access to Resources and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (PhARM-OUD) Guideline
- National Opioids Settlements
- DEA Guidance Document on Suspicious Order Monitoring (January 20, 2023)
- DEA and HHS: Dear Registrant Letter about MOUD
- Press release about legislative effort to exempt buprenorphine from Suspicious Orders Report System
Resources for Supporting Patients
The following links supplement the webinar Patient Perspectives: Pharmacy’s Role in Supporting OUD Remission and Recovery and the buprenorphine patient experience cards provided by P2P pharmacists during their visits.
Treatment Locator and Other Support
Non-Stigmatizing Language
Social Determinants of Health
Customer Service
Buprenorphine Essentials: Q&A for Safe and Effective Dispensing
The following links appear in the Learn More callout boxes throughout the printed BRIDGE continuing education activity.