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DEA Controlled Substance Prescribing

Meaning

DEA Controlled Substance Prescribing refers to the strict legal and clinical protocols a healthcare provider must follow when authorizing medications classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) due to their potential for dependence or abuse. In the hormonal health space, this primarily applies to prescribing testosterone and other anabolic steroids, which are Schedule III controlled substances. Compliance requires the prescriber to possess an active DEA registration number, adhere to federal and state-specific regulations regarding prescription format and refills, and maintain rigorous documentation to ensure appropriate therapeutic use. The regulatory framework is designed to balance patient access to necessary hormone therapy with the critical need for public safety and diversion prevention.