To our clients:
This post is in regards to a new, recently passed law, signed in by Governor Kasich, as well as changes made by the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy. The changes are, of course, numerous and complicated, but in order to simplify it as best we can here are the highlights:
Part of Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 4741.1 (Veterinarian definitions) has changed. What this means for you: Animal Aides can no longer handle or fill controlled substance prescriptions. These now must be handled by the doctor or a registered veterinary technician that has been authorized by the doctor. Because of this, any controlled substance prescription will now take anywhere from 48 to 72 hours to authorize and fill from the time of the original request.
Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 3719.01 has also had changes made. Namely, and perhaps most importantly for our clients: any patient that takes a controlled drug must be seen every ninety (90) days for an exam with the doctor. There is no exception to this and we encourage our clients with pets on a controlled drug to please call right away and get those appointments scheduled. Failure to do so may result in a lapse of your pet’s prescription.
The medications this law affects include, but are not limited to:
- Phenobarbital
- Tramadol
- Diazepam
- Alprazolam
- Fentanyl
- Hydrocodone
- Torbutrol
- Etc.
If you are unsure of what your pet takes and if it is considered a controlled substance please call right away and speak to a staff member. Otherwise, call and schedule an appointment with a doctor if your pet has not been seen in the last 90 days and is on a controlled substance prescription.
The changes to these laws go into effect on April 1st, 2017 and after that date we will no longer be able to fill or authorize controlled substance prescriptions if your pet has not been seen in the last 90 days.
(513)553-9954
A version of this post is also being mailed to our clients that have a current controlled drug prescription for their pet. We encourage anyone with questions to please give us a call at the number above.