Effective January 1, 2005, prescriptions for controlled substances (Schedules II-V) must be written on tamper-resistant security prescription forms provided by a state-approved security printer. Additionally, on January 1, 2012, a new law took effect that requires changes to controlled substance prescription forms. Prescription forms for controlled substances are now required to include the pre-printed address of the prescribing practitioner, unless a physician is a designated prescriber from a licensed health care facility. Previously, prescription forms were only required to include the pre-printed of the prescribing practitioner:

• Name;
• Category of licensure;
• License number; and
• Federal controlled substance registration number.

Physicians must also now ensure their controlled substance prescription pads contain a statement printed on the bottom of the prescription form that the “Prescription is void if the number of drugs prescribed is not noted.” To learn more about what is required to place an order and what features are needed to be California-compliant, watch this three-minute video: There are several places where you can order your tamper-resistant prescription pads. If you are a California Medical Association (CMA) member you can take advantage of the discounted rate with RxSecurity. CMA members receive a 15% off RxSecurity’s already low prices. Depending on the number of pads purchased, members will pay as low as $2.68 per pad for one-part pads or $4.46 for two-part pads. Special pricing is available for hospitals, clinics, and other high-volume purchasers. Order online at www.rxsecurity.com/cma-order or call (800) 307-7717. Another company that you may like to consider is RxPads. You can order online at http://www.rxpads.com/support/StateFormat.aspx or call (800) 667-9723. More information can be found at California’s Board of Pharmacy at http://www.pharmacy.ca.gov/ or call (800) 667-9723.