H.R. 4599

(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on May 10, 2016. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Reducing Unused Medications Act of 2016

(Sec. 2) This bill amends the Controlled Substances Act to allow a pharmacist to partially fill a prescription for a schedule II controlled substance (such as a prescription opioid painkiller) if: (1) it is not prohibited by state law, (2) it is prescribed in accordance with existing laws and regulations, (3) it is requested by the patient or prescribing practitioner, and (4) the total quantity dispensed in partial fillings does not exceed the total quantity prescribed.

Additionally, a pharmacist may partially fill a prescription for a schedule II controlled substance in other circumstances in accordance with existing Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations. (Current DEA regulations permit partial fills when a pharmacist cannot supply a full quantity, a patient resides in a long-term care facility, or a patient is terminally ill.)

The remaining portion of a partially filled prescription may be filled within 30 days or, in the case of an emergency situation, within 72 hours.