DEA Stretches Virtual Controlled Drug Prescriptions to 2026
Published Date: 12/31/2025
Rule
Summary
The DEA and HHS are extending special telemedicine rules that let doctors prescribe controlled medications without an in-person visit through December 31, 2026. This helps patients who need these meds get care safely from home. Doctors and patients can keep using telehealth for these prescriptions without extra costs or delays during this time.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Keep Telemedicine Prescriptions Open
You can continue to get prescriptions for Schedule II-V controlled medications by telemedicine without an in-person medical visit if the rule's conditions are met. The temporary extension covers telemedicine prescribing from May 12, 2023 through December 31, 2026 and the rule is effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026. The agencies note that in 2024 about 7 million prescriptions (roughly 16 percent of 44.6 million) were issued without a prior in-person medical evaluation.
Estimated Patient Cost Savings
DEA and HHS estimate patient cost savings from this extension: $18.4 million in the first year and a net present value of $17.2 million at a 7% discount rate. The agencies say the extension creates cost savings to patients and prescribers by avoiding the need for some in-person care during the extension period through December 31, 2026.
Fewer Requirements Than Final Rules
The temporary rule imposes fewer requirements than two related final rules that also address telemedicine prescribing. Practitioners who are covered by one or both of the Two Final Rules may still use this temporary extension (through December 31, 2026) so long as they meet the temporary rule's conditions, which can reduce compliance burdens during the extension.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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