Quantity Limit Applications
- FDA-approved dosing: Limit quantities to FDA-approved doses
- Controlled substances: Limit opioid prescriptions to 7 days for acute pain
- Specialty drugs: Limit specialty drug quantities to prevent waste
- Lifestyle drugs: Limit quantities for drugs with abuse potential
- New prescriptions: Limit initial prescriptions to 30 days to assess tolerability
Days Supply Management
Days supply management — limiting prescriptions to 30 or 90 days — affects both adherence and cost. 30-day supplies are appropriate for new medications (to assess tolerability) and acute conditions. 90-day supplies are appropriate for stable chronic medications (to improve adherence and reduce dispensing fees). Mail order programs typically provide 90-day supplies.
Opioid Quantity Limits
Compliance Note
Opioid quantity limits are an important component of opioid management programs. Many states require plans to limit initial opioid prescriptions to 7 days for acute pain. Even in states without this requirement, limiting initial opioid prescriptions to 7 days is evidence-based and reduces the risk of opioid dependence. Implement opioid quantity limits as part of a comprehensive opioid management program.