Bill > H2414

This bill introduces new requirements for healthcare practitioners when prescribing certain medications, specifically extended-release long-acting opioids, benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, and Schedule II opioids. The bill first defines these medications, including benzodiazepines (drugs that depress the central nervous system and treat conditions like insomnia and anxiety) and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics (drugs that produce similar effects and treat insomnia). For each medication type, practitioners must now conduct a comprehensive patient review before the first prescription, which includes evaluating the patient's current condition, risk factors, mental health and substance use history, assessing alternative treatments, and discussing medication risks. For patients who are minors, these reviews must involve the parent or legal guardian. The practitioner must obtain written informed consent using a form designed to be easily understood by non-medical professionals, which includes information about medication misuse, addiction risks, and long-term use dangers. For opioids, an additional review is required before issuing a third prescription, further emphasizing the bill's focus on patient safety and informed medical decision-making.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2414