71
North Carolina Medical Board www.ncmedboard.org | [email protected] North Carolina Medical Board 1203 Front Street | Raleigh, NC 27609 www.ncmedboard.org | [email protected] 800.253.9653 Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider Needs to Know Brooke A. Chidgey, MD Clinical Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology University of North Carolina School of Medicine

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Page 1: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board 1203 Front Street | Raleigh NC 27609

wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg 8002539653

Controlled Substances Prescribing

What Every Provider Needs to Know

Brooke A Chidgey MD Clinical Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology University of North Carolina School of Medicine

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Learning Objectives

bull Promote best practices for managing chronic pain and prescribing controlled substances through the CDC Guideline

bull Identify strategies for recognizing signs of misuse and abuse of prescription opioids

bull Describe strategies for communicating with patients about avoiding or reducing prescription opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CURRENT STATE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

00

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014

Death

s p

er

1000

00 p

op

ula

tio

n

Year

Motor Vehicle Traffic (Unintentional)

Drug Poisoning (All Intents)

Firearm (All Intents)

α

1989 ndash Pain added as 5th Vital Sign

Per 10000 age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population α - Transition from ICD-8 to ICD-9 β ndash Transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10

National Vital Statistics System httpwondercdcgov multiple cause dataset Source Death files 1968-2014 CDC WONDER Analysis by Injury Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Rx and Drug Overdose Prevention Partners

Research and Evaluation

Prevention Policy Harm Reduction

Prescription Drug Monitoring

Program

Carolinas Poison Center

Enforcement and Regulation

Pain Patient Support

Data and Surveillance

Drug Take Back

Communication Advocacy

Funding

Pharmaceuticals

Community Coalitions

Local Public Health Substance Use

Disorder Treatment Recovery Services

DPH DMHDDSAS DMA DPS ORH

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 2: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Learning Objectives

bull Promote best practices for managing chronic pain and prescribing controlled substances through the CDC Guideline

bull Identify strategies for recognizing signs of misuse and abuse of prescription opioids

bull Describe strategies for communicating with patients about avoiding or reducing prescription opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CURRENT STATE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

00

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014

Death

s p

er

1000

00 p

op

ula

tio

n

Year

Motor Vehicle Traffic (Unintentional)

Drug Poisoning (All Intents)

Firearm (All Intents)

α

1989 ndash Pain added as 5th Vital Sign

Per 10000 age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population α - Transition from ICD-8 to ICD-9 β ndash Transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10

National Vital Statistics System httpwondercdcgov multiple cause dataset Source Death files 1968-2014 CDC WONDER Analysis by Injury Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Rx and Drug Overdose Prevention Partners

Research and Evaluation

Prevention Policy Harm Reduction

Prescription Drug Monitoring

Program

Carolinas Poison Center

Enforcement and Regulation

Pain Patient Support

Data and Surveillance

Drug Take Back

Communication Advocacy

Funding

Pharmaceuticals

Community Coalitions

Local Public Health Substance Use

Disorder Treatment Recovery Services

DPH DMHDDSAS DMA DPS ORH

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 3: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CURRENT STATE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

00

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014

Death

s p

er

1000

00 p

op

ula

tio

n

Year

Motor Vehicle Traffic (Unintentional)

Drug Poisoning (All Intents)

Firearm (All Intents)

α

1989 ndash Pain added as 5th Vital Sign

Per 10000 age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population α - Transition from ICD-8 to ICD-9 β ndash Transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10

National Vital Statistics System httpwondercdcgov multiple cause dataset Source Death files 1968-2014 CDC WONDER Analysis by Injury Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Rx and Drug Overdose Prevention Partners

Research and Evaluation

Prevention Policy Harm Reduction

Prescription Drug Monitoring

Program

Carolinas Poison Center

Enforcement and Regulation

Pain Patient Support

Data and Surveillance

Drug Take Back

Communication Advocacy

Funding

Pharmaceuticals

Community Coalitions

Local Public Health Substance Use

Disorder Treatment Recovery Services

DPH DMHDDSAS DMA DPS ORH

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 4: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

00

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014

Death

s p

er

1000

00 p

op

ula

tio

n

Year

Motor Vehicle Traffic (Unintentional)

Drug Poisoning (All Intents)

Firearm (All Intents)

α

1989 ndash Pain added as 5th Vital Sign

Per 10000 age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population α - Transition from ICD-8 to ICD-9 β ndash Transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10

National Vital Statistics System httpwondercdcgov multiple cause dataset Source Death files 1968-2014 CDC WONDER Analysis by Injury Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Rx and Drug Overdose Prevention Partners

Research and Evaluation

Prevention Policy Harm Reduction

Prescription Drug Monitoring

Program

Carolinas Poison Center

Enforcement and Regulation

Pain Patient Support

Data and Surveillance

Drug Take Back

Communication Advocacy

Funding

Pharmaceuticals

Community Coalitions

Local Public Health Substance Use

Disorder Treatment Recovery Services

DPH DMHDDSAS DMA DPS ORH

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 5: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

00

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014

Death

s p

er

1000

00 p

op

ula

tio

n

Year

Motor Vehicle Traffic (Unintentional)

Drug Poisoning (All Intents)

Firearm (All Intents)

α

1989 ndash Pain added as 5th Vital Sign

Per 10000 age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population α - Transition from ICD-8 to ICD-9 β ndash Transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10

National Vital Statistics System httpwondercdcgov multiple cause dataset Source Death files 1968-2014 CDC WONDER Analysis by Injury Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Rx and Drug Overdose Prevention Partners

Research and Evaluation

Prevention Policy Harm Reduction

Prescription Drug Monitoring

Program

Carolinas Poison Center

Enforcement and Regulation

Pain Patient Support

Data and Surveillance

Drug Take Back

Communication Advocacy

Funding

Pharmaceuticals

Community Coalitions

Local Public Health Substance Use

Disorder Treatment Recovery Services

DPH DMHDDSAS DMA DPS ORH

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 6: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina

North Carolina Rx and Drug Overdose Prevention Partners

Research and Evaluation

Prevention Policy Harm Reduction

Prescription Drug Monitoring

Program

Carolinas Poison Center

Enforcement and Regulation

Pain Patient Support

Data and Surveillance

Drug Take Back

Communication Advocacy

Funding

Pharmaceuticals

Community Coalitions

Local Public Health Substance Use

Disorder Treatment Recovery Services

DPH DMHDDSAS DMA DPS ORH

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 7: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Rx and Drug Overdose Prevention Partners

Research and Evaluation

Prevention Policy Harm Reduction

Prescription Drug Monitoring

Program

Carolinas Poison Center

Enforcement and Regulation

Pain Patient Support

Data and Surveillance

Drug Take Back

Communication Advocacy

Funding

Pharmaceuticals

Community Coalitions

Local Public Health Substance Use

Disorder Treatment Recovery Services

DPH DMHDDSAS DMA DPS ORH

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 8: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMBrsquos Response

bull Implementing new programs and initiatives

bull Developing resource pages

bull Increasing communication with doctors and PAs through presentations forum articles website notices and social media

bull Participating in workgroups advisory boards

bull Developing and promoting training on opioids

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 9: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 10: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Programs and Initiatives

bull Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) oRegistration

oUtilization

bull Adoption of CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 11: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE SPECIFIC CME REQUIREMENT

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 12: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

NCMBrsquos primary goal is to ensure that licensees who prescribe controlled substances ndash

particularly opioids ndash do so in a manner that is safe appropriate and consistent with current

standards of care

Requiring CME in controlled substances prescribing and related topics is one way of

supporting this

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 13: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

bull Effective July 1 2017

bull Complete specific CME

oControlled substances prescribing practices

oRecognizing signs of misuse and abuse

oControlled substance prescribing for chronic pain management

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 14: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE REPORTING SYSTEM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 15: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull Prescription drug monitoring program

bull Information on controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed in NC o Aid in patient safety

o Identify patients at risk

o Improve opioid prescribing practices

bull Utilization now considered a best practice when prescribing for pain patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 16: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 17: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 18: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Query

A

A

B

C

D

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 19: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS

bull New patient or first encounter prescribing controlled substances for patient

bull Intermittently thereafter based on risk

bull Can register a ldquodelegaterdquo to perform queries for you

bull Use best judgment

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 20: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC CSRS Data Points

In the 4th quarter of 2016 bull 18 million opioid prescriptions written by

39682 prescribers in NC bull 508279 queries completed in advance

representing a 28 utilization rate bull 23556 prescribers in NC and 1521

delegates registered with CSRS

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 21: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS)

bull 2016 NC law mandating registration

bull Physicians and PAs who have valid DEA registration

bull Law goes into effect when DHHS and CSRS update the system to meet specific requirements

bull NCMB encouraging voluntary registration

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 22: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 23: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 24: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 25: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

NCMB POSITION STATEMENT ADOPTION OF THE CDC GUIDELINE

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 26: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 27: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 28: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Provide safe effective outpatient pain treatment

bull Not intended for patients who are in active cancer treatment palliative care or end-of-life care

bull Recommendations in the Guideline may not meet the needs of all patients ndash use your professional judgment when providing care

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 29: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

bull Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

bull Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

bull Assessing risk and addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 30: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section I Determining when to initiate or continue opioids for chronic pain

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 31: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 1

bull Nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapies are preferred for chronic pain

bull Benefits of opioid use must outweigh risks

bull Should benefit in both pain and function

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 32: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Function

ldquoPain average interference with Enjoyment of life

and interference with General activityrdquo Assessment Scale

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 33: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 2

bull Before starting opioid therapy establish realistic treatment goals

bull Consider how therapy will be discontinued if benefits are no longer outweighing risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 34: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 3

bull Before prescribing opioids discuss the known risks of this therapeutic option

bull Discuss the responsibility of the patients and providers to reduce these risks

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 35: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Discussion Topics

bull Severe adverse effects and common side effects

bull Risks with other drugs

bull Risks when driving

bull Risks of opiate use disorder

bull Appropriate storage and risk to others

bull Precautions being taken to reduce risk (UDS naloxone pill count PDMP etc)

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 36: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

A Different Discussion

bull Lack of evidence of long-term benefit of opioids for chronic pain

bull Poor efficacy in neuropathic pain

bull Can worsen other pain conditions

bull Opiate-induced hyperalgesia

bull Difficulty controlling post-procedural pain in future

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 37: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section II Opioid selection dosage duration follow-up and discontinuation

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 38: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 4

bull Use immediate-release medications when initiating opioid therapy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 39: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 5

bull Prescribe lowest effective dosage

bull Carefully reassess individual benefit and risks when increasing to ge 50 MMEday

bull Avoid increasing to ge 90 MMEday OR carefully justify decision

bull Consult with pain specialist

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 40: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 6

bull When prescribing opiates for acute pain prescribe minimum quantity needed for severe pain

bull 3 days will often be sufficient rarely more than 7 days worth is needed

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 41: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 7

bull Evaluate benefits and harms within 1 to 4 weeks of starting opioid

bull Evaluate at least every 3 months thereafter

bull Taper opioids as necessary

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 42: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Concerning Behaviors

bull Requesting early refills

bull Missing pills (stolen lost ruined)

bull Inappropriate urine drug screens

bull Obtaining opioids from others

bull Using multiple pharmacies

bull Dishonesty during encounter

bull Appearing sedated

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 43: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Tapering

bull Reduce dosage by 10-50 weekly

bull Rapid taper over 2-3 weeks for ldquosevere adverse event such as overdoserdquo

bull May need to pause and restart

bull Taper considered successful if patient making progress

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 44: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

CDC Guideline

Section III Assessing risk and

addressing harms of opioid use

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 45: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 8

bull Evaluate risk factors for opioid-related harms

bull Implement strategies to mitigate risk

bull Naloxone for higher risk patients

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 46: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

At Risk Populations

bull Sleep apnea

bull Renal or hepatic insufficiency

bull ge 65 years old

bull Mental health conditions

bull Substance use disorder

bull Prior nonfatal overdose

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 47: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 9

bull Review prescription drug monitoring program for dosages and dangerous combinations

bull Review before initiation of opioid and at least every 3 months

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 48: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 10

bull When prescribing opiates for chronic pain perform urine drug testing before starting opiate therapy

bull Consider repeating at least annually

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 49: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Urine Drug Screening

bull Looking for

o Illicit drugs

o Prescribed drugs

o Drugs taken but not prescribed

bull Need context for interpretation

o When was last dose

o How does patient take medication

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 50: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Results

bull What are you testing for

bull Drug metabolites

o Hydrocodone Hydromorphone

o Oxycodone Oxymorphone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 51: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Patient Dismissal

bull Do not dismiss patient from practice based on urine drug test result

bull Could be considered abandonment

bull Could leave patient at risk

bull A missed opportunity

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 52: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 11

bull Avoid prescribing opioid pain medication and benzodiazepines concurrently whenever possible

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 53: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Recommendation 12

bull Clinicians should offer or arrange evidenced-based therapy for patients with opioid use disorder

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 54: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 55: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

TurnTheTide

ldquoWe have to stop treating addiction as a moral failing and start seeing it for what it is a chronic disease that must be treated with urgency and

compassionrdquo

ndash Dr Vivek H Murthy United States Surgeon General

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 56: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Key Points

bull Evaluate YOUR patient

bull Assess individual risks and benefits

bull Avoid opiates if you can

bull Start low and go slow

bull Reassess throughout (days ndash 3 months)

bull 50 MME and 90 MME are NOT strict limits

bull Use opportunities to get patients help

bull Document document document

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 57: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

IMPLEMENTING THE GUIDELINE CASES

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 58: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

57yo M presents as a new patient to your clinic He states he has been using opiates for the last

10 years to control his pain His most recent regimen has been Oxycodone ER 60mg twice

daily He is looking to establish care with you to take over his prescription He also takes

pregabalin 100mg twice daily for neuropathy

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 59: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Patient has had numerous back surgeries over the years He has tried and failed the following therapies

bull Physical therapy TENS unit home exercises

bull Gabapentin duloxetine topical lidocaine

bull NSAIDs contraindicated due to gastric ulcers

bull Epidural steroid injections

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 60: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Other Information

bull No alcohol smoking or drug history

bull Works daily at his farm tending to crops and animals

bull Denies side effects to medication regimen except constipation which is controlled through diet

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 61: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr H

bull Patient has remaining pills in bottle with him

bull NC CSRS reveals history of one provider prescribing current regimen for last 4 years

bull No other controlled substances besides pregabalin

bull POC UDS +oxycodone

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 62: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

What Would You Do

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 63: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Ms M

43yo F presents as a new patient with severe back pain ever since she had her child 4 years

ago She has been taking oxycodone 15mg every 4 hours for pain because nothing else

works She is now out of her medication and needs a refill

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 64: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Further Questioning

Previous imaging studies with mild disc degeneration Cannot tolerate PT or exercise due to pain Is not willing to try gabapentin or other adjunctive therapies because she ldquoknows what worksrdquo

Patient unable to leave urine specimen

NC CSRS reveals numerous small prescriptions from multiple providers

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 65: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Next Step

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 66: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Mr E

51yo M longtime patient on hydrocodoneAPAP 10325mg q6hr prn pain Patient calls for early

refill because going on a trip

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 67: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

2 Months Later

Patient returns but is short on pills because he left some at home in his pill organizer

Urine drug screen performed revealed no substances Patient reported last use was this AM

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 68: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Now What

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 69: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Resources

o wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

o wwwncmedboardorgsafeopioids

o Dowell D Haegerich T Chou R et al CDC Guidelines For Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain MMWR Recomm Rep 201665(No 1) 1-49

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 70: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Controlled Substances CME Requirement

Who must comply with new requirement

bull All physicians and PAs who prescribe controlled substances

bull Residents who hold a full medical license

bull Maintenance of Certification participants who prescribe controlled substances

For other questions on the controlled substances CME visit wwwncmedboardorgprescribingcme

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg

Page 71: Controlled Substances Prescribing: What Every Provider

North Carolina Medical Board wwwncmedboardorg | infoncmedboardorg

Questions

bull Website wwwncmedboardorg

bull Call 18002539653

bull Email infoncmedboardorg