What is the maximum number of refills allowed for a Schedule II prescription?

A Schedule II prescription is subject to strict regulations under federal law, primarily due to the high potential for abuse and dependence associated with substances in this category. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations, a Schedule II medication cannot have any refills. Each prescription must be newly written and signed by the prescriber for every supply of the medication that the patient requires.

This policy reflects the intent to monitor the dispensing of these powerful drugs closely, ensuring that patients have regular consultations with their healthcare providers to assess ongoing need, effectiveness of treatment, or potential for misuse. Unlike prescriptions for other schedules, such as Schedule III or IV, where refills are permitted up to a specified limit, the regulations for Schedule II medications prioritize safety and oversight.