Did you know that the DEA posts current guidance on its website in a Guidance Document Portal or under its Q&A webpage?  

The process of updating regulations related to controlled substances can be lengthy and complex. Sometimes, while waiting for new rules to be published in the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations, the DEA releases a guidance document until the new regulations are finalized. This often happens when Congress passes a new law that requires the creation of regulations. A good example is the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 (CAA), which included provisions to expand access to medications for opioid use disorder (OUD). Specifically, the CAA changed the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by removing the “DATA-Waiver” requirement previously found in 21 U.S.C. 823(g)(2). The DEA informed its practitioner registrants of the new obligation to attest to having received eight hours of training in prescribing for OUD. Stay updated by visiting the DEA Diversion website and checking the Guidance Document Portal. If you need assistance understanding any of these guidance documents or DEA regulations, please contact me at sarah.boblenz@sbrinksconsulting.com. I would be happy to help you. For additional information about our services, please visit Brinks Consulting for DEA Compliance Solutions.