What are the controlled substances schedules and how do they affect prescription medications in Tennessee?
Controlled substances are divided into five schedules in Tennessee, based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use.Schedule I: These substances have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Examples include heroin, LSD, and marijuana. It is illegal to possess or distribute Schedule I drugs in Tennessee.
Schedule II: These substances have a high potential for abuse, but may have some accepted medical uses. Examples include cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone. A doctor must prescribe these medications with caution and monitoring due to their potential for abuse.
Schedule III: These substances have a moderate potential for abuse and accepted medical uses. Examples include anabolic steroids and codeine-containing medications. Doctors may prescribe these medications under certain circumstances, such as when treating pain or allergy symptoms.
Schedule IV: These substances have a low potential for abuse and accepted medical uses. Examples include benzodiazepines and sleeping pills. Doctors can prescribe these medications in certain circumstances, but will typically monitor patients closely to prevent abuse.
Schedule V: These substances have a very low potential for abuse and accepted medical uses. Examples include cough suppressants with small amounts of codeine. These medications are available over-the-counter in some states, but require a doctor’s prescription in Tennessee.
How do I dispose of expired or unused prescription medications in a safe and legal manner in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, there are various safe and legal ways to dispose of expired or unused prescription medications. The best way to dispose of unused or expired medications is to take them to a local authorized hazardous waste collection site or a law enforcement agency that has a drug take-back program. If neither of these options is available, unused or expired medications can be disposed of in the household trash by mixing them with an undesirable substance such as kitty litter or coffee grounds and sealing them in a plastic bag.Are there restrictions on the prescription of opioid painkillers due to the opioid epidemic in Tennessee?
Yes, there are restrictions on the prescription of opioid painkillers due to the opioid epidemic in Tennessee. The Tennessee Department of Health has published guidelines to help healthcare providers safely prescribe these medications. The guidelines recommend that providers limit opioid prescriptions to less than seven days for acute pain and avoid prescribing more than 90 morphine milligram equivalents a day. Providers are also encouraged to use alternative pain treatments when possible and to educate patients about the risks associated with opioid misuse.What is the process for obtaining a prescription for medical marijuana in Tennessee?
At this time, medical marijuana is not legal in Tennessee. However, there is a proposal to legalize it in the state pending legislation. If the legislation passes, it will create a process for obtaining a prescription for medical marijuana. This process will likely involve a doctor’s recommendation and registration with the Tennessee Department of Health.Are there limitations on the quantity of prescription medications that can be dispensed in Tennessee?
Yes, there are limits on the quantity of prescription medications that can be dispensed in Tennessee. The Tennessee Board of Pharmacy requires that prescriptions for controlled substances may not be refilled earlier than six months after the last refill. Additionally, prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances may not exceed a 30-day supply and for Schedule III and IV controlled substances may not exceed a 90-day supply. Quantities in excess of these limits must be authorized by the prescriber.Is there a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) to prevent prescription drug abuse in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee has a PDMP called the Tennessee Controlled Substance Monitoring Database. It is designed to help healthcare providers and pharmacists identify patients who may be misusing controlled substances and to reduce prescription drug abuse.Can I legally purchase syringes and needles for personal use without a prescription in Tennessee?
No, you must have a prescription to purchase syringes and needles for personal use in Tennessee. The Tennessee Department of Health requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider before you can purchase syringes and needles for personal use.What are the penalties for possessing controlled substances without a valid prescription in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription is a criminal offense and can result in a range of penalties including fines, jail time, and/or probation. In some cases, offenders may be required to complete a drug treatment program. The specific penalty will depend on the type and amount of drug in possession, as well as the offender’s past criminal history.Is there a Good Samaritan law that provides immunity to individuals who seek help for a drug overdose in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee has a Good Samaritan law that provides immunity to individuals who seek medical help for a drug overdose. The law states that anyone who seeks emergency medical assistance for someone who is experiencing an overdose or other drug-related medical emergency cannot be prosecuted or penalized for possession of a controlled substance or paraphernalia. The law also applies to anyone who is present when help is sought.Do state laws allow for the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) pseudoephedrine products, and are there quantity restrictions in Tennessee?
Yes, state laws allow for the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) pseudoephedrine products in Tennessee. Tennessee has implemented a number of restrictions on the sale and purchase of pseudoephedrine, including a requirement that consumers sign a logbook to purchase OTC products containing this active ingredient. Furthermore, there is a statewide limit on the amount of product that can be purchased within a 30-day period of 3.6 grams, or just over 120 tablets. Additionally, a single purchase may not exceed two and a half grams, or about 90 tablets.Are there restrictions on the sale of certain cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM) to prevent abuse in Tennessee?
Yes, there are restrictions on the sale of certain cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM) to prevent abuse in Tennessee. Under Tennessee state law, retailers must obtain verification of the buyer’s age and identity prior to sale. Retailers must also place cough syrups containing DXM behind the counter or in a locked cabinet, and maintain records of all sales. In addition, retailers are prohibited from selling more than three packages of the product to any individual in any single day. Violations of these restrictions can result in criminal penalties.What are the regulations for methadone clinics and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs in Tennessee?
The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS) oversees the regulations for methadone clinics and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs in the state. All MAT programs must be licensed by TDMHSAS and must comply with the requirements of the federal Drug Addiction Treatment Act (DATA 2000). These programs must provide a comprehensive approach to treatment, including individual and group counseling, medical care, educational services, and other services. Patients must be monitored for adherence to medication schedules, drug use, and overall functioning. Treatment plans must be individualized and must include an assessment of the patient’s needs. All MAT providers must be certified by TDMHSAS.Can I legally purchase or possess synthetic cannabinoids (spice or K2) in Tennessee?
No, it is illegal to possess, use, manufacture, distribute or sell synthetic cannabinoids (spice or K2) in Tennessee. If caught with such substances, it is a felony that carries a punishment of up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.What are the penalties for selling or trafficking illegal drugs in Tennessee?
The penalties for selling or trafficking illegal drugs in Tennessee depend on the type and amount of drug involved. Possession of any controlled substance is a felony offense carrying a minimum sentence of 1-3 years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines. Selling or trafficking certain drugs can result in even harsher punishments, including longer terms in prison and higher fines. For example, selling or trafficking more than 300 grams of cocaine in Tennessee can result in a sentence of 8-30 years in prison and fines up to $200,000.Are there laws that address drug testing in the workplace in Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee employers are prohibited from requiring employees to undergo drug testing as a condition of employment unless it is part of a “bona fide pre-employment drug screening program.” Under Tennessee law, an employer may also require reasonable suspicion drug testing for employees who are subject to federal drug and alcohol testing requirements, such as those who work in a safety-sensitive position or operate a commercial motor vehicle. Additionally, employers in Tennessee may conduct post-accident drug testing, when there is reasonable suspicion to believe that the employee’s intoxication may have contributed to the accident. Finally, employers are allowed to conduct periodic, random drug testing for all employees.Can I legally possess drug paraphernalia, such as pipes or bongs, for personal use in Tennessee?
No, it is illegal to possess drug paraphernalia for personal use in Tennessee. Possession of any kind of drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor offense and can carry a penalty of up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500.Are there restrictions on the sale of prescription drugs through online pharmacies in Tennessee?
Yes, there are restrictions on the sale of prescription drugs through online pharmacies in Tennessee. According to the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy, online pharmacies must be registered with the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy and must comply with all state and federal laws and regulations regarding the sale of prescription drugs. The pharmacy must also meet all requirements for licensure and regulation, including the requirement that all employees of the pharmacy be licensed pharmacists or pharmacy technicians. Additionally, online pharmacies must not sell any controlled substances to customers located outside of Tennessee.Do state laws require pharmacies to provide naloxone (Narcan) without a prescription to prevent opioid overdoses in Tennessee?
Yes. As of July 2019, Tennessee law requires that pharmacists and licensed interns may dispense naloxone (Narcan) without a prescription and without fees to individuals who are at risk of opioid overdose or to family and friends of individuals at risk of opioid overdose.What are the regulations for the storage and handling of controlled substances in healthcare facilities in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, there are specific regulations for the storage and handling of controlled substances in healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.Healthcare facilities must adhere to the following requirements:
1. Store controlled substances in a locked cabinet, closet, or room.
2. Ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the controlled substances.
3. Make sure that all controlled substances are properly labeled and stored in their original containers.
4. Ensure that all controlled substances are stored in well-lit, ventilated areas.
5. Dispose of any expired or unused controlled substances according to local, state, and federal regulations.
6. Implement strict security measures for controlled substances, including 24-hour monitoring and regular inventories.
7. Maintain records of all controlled substance transactions and keep them accessible to authorized personnel only.
8. Promptly report any theft or loss of a controlled substance to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI).
9. Develop and implement an emergency plan for responding to any theft or loss of a controlled substance.
10. Ensure that all personnel handling or administering controlled substances receive appropriate training and supervision.
English 
Spanish