Do I have to see my doctor every 90 days?

Davidadkins asked...

Is it true that you required to have to see your doctor every 90 days to be prescribed methadone for pain?

Expert Answer

Required doctors visits for pain medications: It depends on the doctor, but 90 days is usually the longest you can go before a visit is required.

Methadone is a Schedule II controlled substance and a prescription can only be issued for a one month supply. Some doctors prefer to see you each month before writing a new prescription. Other doctors may decide to see you every 60 to 90 days. It sounds like your doctor prefers to see you every 90 days. You can only receive a prescription once your doctor reassesses your need for methadone. Your doctor determines how often he or she needs to see you based on your pain management needs. Few doctors will write a methadone prescription without seeing you first.