The state Department of Public Health has sent notices to local health departments alerting officials that the federal Drug Enforcement Administration has stripped two West Brookfield doctors of their ability to write prescriptions for certain medications.
The doctors were not identified in the letter, sent May 8. However, the state did indicate that the suspensions could affect 560 patients, primarily located in Franklin, Hampden and Worcester counties.
Calls to the DEA field office in Boston were not immediately returned. Information about the suspension of privileges was not included on the agency's website. The state Department of Public Health also did not respond to requests for more information before deadline Friday.
According to the state letter, the DEA served the physicians on May 6 with “an immediate suspension order, making the providers unable to continue prescribing controlled substances.” Those substances include opioid medications for use as pain relievers and in the treatment of substance use disorders, as well as benzodiazepines and amphetamines.
State officials warned the suspension orders could lead to patients having difficulties accessing their medications, and suggested patients contact primary care physicians to ensure follow-up care.
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In the letter, state health officials warn that abrupt withdrawal from these medications could be life-threatening. Symptoms of withdrawal from opioids could include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle spasms, anxiety and insomnia. Abrupt withdrawal from benzodiazepines could lead to symptoms of nausea, vomiting and heart palpitations, as well as seizures, hallucinations and death.
The state included several resources in its letter for patients who may be suffering from consequences related to their access to medications. These include:
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Those needing opioid medication for substance use or pain: BMC Addiction Warmline: 617-414-4175
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Those needing medication for mental health issues: Massachusetts Behavioral Health helpline: 833-773-2445
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Those needing help with substance abuse treatment or assistance with next steps, Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: 800-327-5050, or helplinema.org.
The state also warned that patients who lose their prescriber and access to medications may seek alternate avenues of relief, risking exposure to drugs fentanyl.
Harm reduction supplies, including drug testing and naloxone (Narcan) are available at manylocations throughout the Bay State, with many pharmacies supplying naloxone.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette:DEA suspends 2 MA doctors' ability to prescribe medicine
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