West Virginia Code Chapter 16. Public Health § 16-54-5. Subsequent prescriptions; limitations

(1) The subsequent prescription would not be deemed an initial prescription pursuant to § 16-54-4 of this code;

(2) The practitioner determines the prescription is necessary and appropriate to the patient's treatment needs and documents the rationale for the issuance of the subsequent prescription; and

(3) The practitioner determines that issuance of the subsequent prescription does not present an undue risk of abuse, addiction, or diversion and documents that determination.

(1) The risks of addiction and overdose associated with Schedule II opioid drugs and the dangers of taking Schedule II opioid drugs with alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other central nervous system depressants;

(2) The reasons why the prescription is necessary;

(3) Alternative treatments that may be available; and

(4) Risks associated with the use of the Schedule II opioid drug being prescribed, specifically that Schedule II opioid drugs are highly addictive, even when taken as prescribed, that there is a risk of developing a physical or psychological dependence on the Schedule II opioid drug, and that the risks of taking more opioids than prescribed, or mixing sedatives, benzodiazepines, or alcohol with opioids, can result in fatal respiratory depression.