Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
Board
Board of Medicine
 
chapter
Regulations Governing Prescribing of Opioids and Buprenorphine [18 VAC 85 ‑ 21]
Guidance Documents
Chapter Information
Description Regulations set out provisions for prescribing of opioids for acute or chronic pain management and for prescribing of buprenorphine for addiction treatment.
State Authority 54.1-2400 and 54.1-2928.2
Federal Authority None entered
Periodic Review Note Revised 8/2023
Text of Regulation Link to Virginia Administrative Code
Goals of Regulation 1. To protect public health and safety by prescribing opioids only to the extent necessary to effectively manage pain.
2. To provide guidance to prescribers in the management of pain and addiction treatment.
Meetings See all meetings (4) relating to this chapter.

Contact Information
Name / Title: Erin Barrett  / Director of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs
Address: Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Henrico, VA 23233
Email Address: erin.barrett@dhp.virginia.gov
Telephone: (804)750-3912    FAX: (804)915-0382    TDD: ()-
Current Actions
Action Title Latest Stage Status
Changes to patient counseling regarding opioid prescriptions pursuant to HB699
Action is Exempt from Article 2 of the Administrative Process Act
Final Stage complete. Becomes effective on 11/06/2024.
Amendment of opioid and buprenorphine prescribing regulations following updated federal guidance Fast-Track Governor's office review in progress.

Past Actions
Action Title Latest Stage Status
Waiver for e-prescribing of an opioid Final Stage complete. This regulation became effective on 06/09/2021.
Initial regulations Final Stage complete. This regulation became effective on 08/08/2018.