(a) In this section, "controlled dangerous substance" has the meaning stated in § 5-101 of the Criminal Law Article. (b) On treatment for pain, a health care provider, based on the clinical judgment of the health care provider, shall prescribe: (1) The lowest effective dose of an opioid; and (2) A quantity that is no greater than the quantity needed for the expected duration of pain severe enough to require an opioid that is a controlled dangerous substance unless the opioid is prescribed to treat: (i) A substance-related disorder; (ii) Pain associated with a cancer diagnosis; (iii) Pain experienced while the patient is receiving end-of-life, hospice, or palliative care services; or (iv) Chronic pain. (c) The dosage, quantity, and duration of an opioid prescribed under subsection (b) of this section shall be based on an evidence-based clinical guideline for prescribing controlled dangerous substances that is appropriate for: (1) The health care service delivery setting for the patient; (2) The type of health care services required by the patient; and (3) The age and health status of the patient. (d) (1) When a patient is prescribed an opioid under subsection (b) of this section, the patient shall be advised of the benefits and risks associated with the opioid. (2) When a patient is co-prescribed a benzodiazepine with an opioid that is prescribed under subsection (b) of this section, the patient shall be advised of the benefits and risks associated with the benzodiazepine and the co-prescription of the benzodiazepine. (e) A violation of subsection (b) or (d) of this section is grounds for disciplinary action by the health occupations board that regulates the health care provider who commits the violation.
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