What is the maximum supply for which a practitioner may issue an opiate prescription to an adult patient for outpatient use for the first time?

In Massachusetts, when a practitioner is prescribing an opiate to an adult patient for the first time for outpatient use, there are specific regulations in place that limit the quantity of the prescription. The law stipulates that the maximum supply that can be issued is a 7-day supply. This regulation aims to mitigate the risks associated with opiate prescriptions, including potential addiction and misuse, particularly for individuals who are newly exposed to these medications.

The 7-day limit serves as a precaution, encouraging practitioners to carefully consider the need for opiate therapy and to monitor patients closely during this initial phase. This approach is part of broader strategies to address the opioid crisis by promoting responsible prescribing practices and enhancing patient safety.

When practitioners are familiar with a patient's history or if there are extenuating circumstances necessitating a longer course of therapy, they may have opportunities for different prescribing practices, but for an initial prescription, the 7-day limit is firmly established.