Controlled Substance Agreement
The purpose of this contract is to establish an agreement between the clinician and patient on conditions for prescribing and use of controlled substances in the event use
of these agents is deemed medically appropriate. This agreement is essential in maintaining the trust and confidence necessary in the clinician/patient relationship. Should controlled medication be a part of your treatment, the frequency and type of medication prescribed is, and must be, under the discretion of your prescribing clinician. Your treatment may require the use of controlled substances which may
include, but not limited to, hypnosedatives or stimulants. The use of controlled substances carries several risks, such as physical dependency, when used on an extended daily basis.
Side effects from hypnosedatives and stimulants include, but are not limited to, drowsiness, fatigue, impaired coordination, irritability, memory impairment, lightheadedness, dizziness, sexual difficulties, depression, confusion, weakness, constipation, changes in appetite or weight, palpitations, increased heart rate and / or blood pressure, psychotic episodes, restlessness, overstimulation, insomnia, euphoria, tremor, exacerbation of tics, dry mouth or possible worsening of clinical psychiatric condition. Taking more controlled substances than as prescribed and/or combining controlled medications with other medications, illicit substances or alcohol could result in life-threatening conditions including but not limited to respiratory failure, cardiac failure, coma, organ damage or even death. Another serious problem associated with prescribing controlled medications is the diversion of controlled substances for resale. Diversion is defined as use of prescription medications for nonmedical recreational or illicit purposes. Withdrawal symptoms from hypnosedatives may include, but are not limited to: insomnia, muscle cramping, vomiting, sweating, tremors, convulsions or death. Withdrawal symptoms from stimulants may include, but are not limited to: depression, intense fatigue and sleepiness.
Tolerance can occur with these medications and is defined as requiring increasing
doses of the medication to obtain the same effect. Tolerance is differentiated from addiction. Addiction involves abnormal social behavior to obtain controlled substances
such as stealing, lying or abusing the medications that have been prescribed. Addiction is not typical in patients who do not have a prior history of addiction to controlled substances, alcohol or illicit substances.
The rules of this agreement may seem extremely strict and demanding. These rules are intended to protect you and others from the improper use of controlled substances. Your clinician believes that these rules are fair and necessary. Your understanding of these liabilities is important and appreciated by all your health care professionals. This agreement must be signed and returned upon your initial visit or signed at the request of your clinician or staff at Cornerstone Psychiatric Services. You may request a copy of this agreement at any time.