Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons lays out opioid prescription rules

HEALTH

Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons lays out opioid prescription rules

The Canadian Press Published Friday, March 3, 2017 5:48PM EST

The opioid drugs Morphine Sulfate, OxyContin and Opana are displayed in California in January 2013. (AP/Rich Pedroncelli)

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EDMONTON - The Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons has laid out new rules for prescribing opioids.

Starting April 1, physicians will have to justify their prescribing decisions based on documented patient assessments.

doctors must also be cautious about putting patients on opioids and must discuss with them the pros and cons of the medication, as well as other treatment options.

The college is also requiring that doctors check an independent source for a patient's medical history and only prescribe a minimal dosage in the meantime.

Registrar Dr. Trevor Theman says opioids pose a significant health risk and doctors need to ensure they are prescribing responsibly.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in Vancouver discussing the opioid crisis there and said over-prescription of such drugs is contributing to the problem.