SECTION 295.14. Dispensing of Opioid Antagonist by Pharmacist

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide standards for pharmacists engaged in the dispensing of opioid antagonists as authorized in Chapter 483 of the Health and Safety Code.

(b) Definitions.

(1) Opioid antagonist--Any drug that binds to opioid receptors and blocks or otherwise inhibits the effects of opioids acting on those receptors.

(2) Opioid-related drug overdose--A condition, evidenced by symptoms such as extreme physical illness, decreased level of consciousness, constriction of the pupils, respiratory depression, or coma, that a layperson would reasonably believe to be the result of the consumption or use of an opioid.

(3) Prescriber--A person authorized by law to prescribe an opioid antagonist.

(c) Dispensing.

(1) A pharmacist may dispense an opioid antagonist under a valid prescription, including a prescription issued by a standing order, to:

(A) a person at risk of experiencing an opioid-related drug overdose; or

(B) a family member, friend, or other person in a position to assist a person described by subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

(2) A prescription dispensed under this section is considered as dispensed for a legitimate medical purpose in the usual course of professional practice.

(3) A pharmacist who, acting in good faith and with reasonable care, dispenses or does not dispense an opioid antagonist under a valid prescription is not subject to any criminal or civil liability or any professional disciplinary action for:

(A) dispensing or failing to dispense the opioid antagonist; or

(B) if the pharmacist chooses to dispense an opioid antagonist, any outcome resulting from the eventual administration of the opioid antagonist.

Source Note: The provisions of this §295.14 adopted to be effective December 19, 2016, 41 TexReg 9935