Xanax (Alprazolam) Prescription Refill Laws, Rules, & Regulations

Xanax, also known by its generic name alprazolam, is a prescription medication that can treat anxiety. 

Under the Controlled Substances Act, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Xanax as a Schedule IV Controlled Substance. This means it poses a somewhat high risk for drug abuse and addiction.

As with all controlled drugs, health care providers must follow state and federal regulations when refilling Xanax prescriptions. 

State Refill Laws For Xanax

According to Massachusetts’ state law, a controlled substance prescription can be refilled only if the prescribing practitioner authorizes refills in the original prescription. The original prescription must also specify the number of refills allowed along with the dosage form, quantity, and date filled.

Massachusetts law also states that a single prescription of Xanax cannot be refilled more than five times or more than six months after the date of the original prescription. Once the drug has been refilled five times or six months have passed, the prescriber must write a new prescription. 

This law also applies to other Schedule IV drugs as well as Schedule III drugs.

The prescribing practitioner can authorize additional or early refills through a written prescription, electronic prescription, or oral prescription (in other words, through calling the pharmacy practice). 

However, the additional or early refill must be authorized within six months of the original prescription and must not exceed the five refill limit.

The pharmacist who receives an oral prescription for an additional or early refill must record the date, refill quantity, and number of refills authorized on the original written or electronic prescription record. 

Federal Refill Laws For Xanax

Xanax prescribers in Massachusetts must also follow federal laws regarding prescriptions and refills.

According to federal law, prescriptions for Xanax and other Schedule IV drugs can only be written for a legitimate medical purpose and for up to a 90-day-supply. In contrast, prescription drugs classified under Schedules III and II, which include opioids like fentanyl and hydrocodone, can only be written for up to a 30-day-supply in most cases. 

If you or someone you love struggles with Xanax abuse or addiction, please reach out to an Ark Behavioral Health specialist to learn about our comprehensive treatment programs.