4 CCR 728-1.29 - RULES REGARDING THE USE OF BENZODIAZEPINES

The basis for the Board's promulgation of these rules and regulations is sections 12-20-204(1), 12-275-108(1)(b), and 12-275-113(5), C.R.S. The specific statutory authority for the promulgation of this Rule is section 12-30-109(6), C.R.S.

The purpose of these rules and regulations is to implement rules required by section 12-30-109(6), C.R.S., related to requirements for prescribing benzodiazepines to patients who have not previously been prescribed benzodiazepines within the last twelve months.

A. Licensees must limit any prescription for a continuous benzodiazepine to a 30-day supply, for any patient who has not been prescribed a benzodiazepine in the last 12 months.

Prior to prescribing a benzodiazepine for a condition that is not exempt under section 12-280-404(4) (a.5), C.R.S., a licensee must comply with the requirements of section 12-280-404(4), C.R.S.

B. The limitation stated in section (A) of this Rule does not apply to patients for whom licensees prescribe benzodiazepines for the following conditions:

1. Epilepsy;

2. A seizure, a seizure disorder, or a suspected seizure disorder;

3. Spasticity;

4. Alcohol withdrawal; or

5. A neurological condition, including a post-traumatic brain injury or catatonia.

C. These rules do not require or encourage abrupt discontinuation, limitation, or withdrawal of benzodiazepines. Licensees are expected to follow generally accepted standards of optometry practice, based on an individual patient's needs, in tapering benzodiazepine prescriptions.

Notes

4 CCR 728-1.29

37 CR 12, June 25, 2014, effective 7/15/2014 43 CR 12, June 25, 2020, effective 7/15/2020 43 CR 23, December 10, 2020, effective 12/30/2020 44 CR 12, June 25, 2021, effective 7/15/2021 44 CR 24, December 25, 2021, effective 1/14/2022 45 CR 21, November 10, 2022, effective 10/5/2022 45 CR 22, November 25, 2022, effective 10/26/2022 45 CR 23, December 10, 2022, effective 11/11/2022 45 CR 24, December 25, 2022, effective 1/14/2023 46 CR 24, December 25, 2023, effective 1/14/2024