Out of state controlled substance prescription?

September 7, 2020 9:46 AM

I’m visiting Washington state from California and need to have my doctor send over a prescription for Vyvanse, which is a controlled substance. Is this possible?

I just had my appointment with my psychiatrist before I left. He says he will send my prescription to an out of state pharmacy. But will the pharmacy fill it? I already tried calling Walgreens to ask, but they are closed for Labor Day. Thank you!

posted by baptismal to Health & Fitness (4 answers total)

Yes I live and work in different states. This has never been an issue.
posted by geoff. at 10:24 AM on September 7, 2020

I use Walgreens and have frequently had prescriptions filled at stores other than my “home” pharmacy while traveling out of state.
posted by findabair at 10:30 AM on September 7, 2020

A family member was able to get a Vyvanse refill while traveling out of state, but their health insurance didn't cover out-of-state prescriptions, and Vyvanse is on the expensive side. Most health insurance doesn't have that limitation, though.
posted by chromium at 11:27 AM on September 7, 2020

Anecdotally, my doctor said that many states have loosened out-of-state rules for controlled substances further due to COVID so I would just give it a shot. Worst case, the pharmacy will call you (or your doctor) to inform you there's an issue, but I don't think there will be one.
posted by mosst at 2:12 PM on September 7, 2020