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Bill

Bill

A 2650

Limits the substitution of abuse-deterrent analgesic opioid drug products for analgesic opioids lacking such technology

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nader Sayegh

Bill A 2650 limits opioid substitutions, requiring healthcare providers to prescribe abuse-deterrent formulations, enhancing patient safety and reducing addiction risks.

REFERRED TO INSURANCE
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Bill Summary · A 2650

Summary of Bill A 2650

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 2650
  • Title: Limits the substitution of abuse-deterrent analgesic opioid drug products for analgesic opioids lacking such technology
  • Status: Referred to Insurance
  • Introduced: January 21, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2650 aims to address the growing concerns surrounding opioid abuse and misuse by regulating the substitution of analgesic opioid medications. Specifically, the bill seeks to limit the substitution of traditional analgesic opioids with abuse-deterrent formulations, which are designed to reduce the potential for misuse and addiction.

Key Provisions

  • Substitution Limitations: The bill proposes that healthcare providers and pharmacists must adhere to specific guidelines when prescribing or dispensing opioid medications. This includes:
    • Mandatory Use of Abuse-Deterrent Formulations: When available, healthcare providers are encouraged to prescribe abuse-deterrent analgesic opioid products instead of standard opioid medications.
    • Restrictions on Substitutions: Pharmacists may be restricted from substituting prescribed analgesic opioids with those that lack abuse-deterrent technology unless certain criteria are met.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Patients: Individuals who require pain management through opioid medications will be directly impacted, as they may have limited access to certain medications based on the new substitution rules.
  • Healthcare Providers: Physicians and other prescribers will need to adjust their prescribing practices to comply with the new regulations.
  • Pharmacists: Pharmacists will have to navigate the new guidelines for dispensing opioids, ensuring they adhere to the limitations set forth in the bill.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 21, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Insurance Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: The bill is related to prior-session bills A 4667 and A 62, as well as companion bill S 987, which may address similar issues regarding opioid prescriptions and abuse deterrence.

Conclusion

Bill A 2650 represents a legislative effort to combat opioid abuse by promoting the use of abuse-deterrent formulations. By limiting substitutions of traditional opioids, the bill aims to enhance patient safety and reduce the risk of addiction. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for patients, healthcare providers, and pharmacists will become clearer.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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