Prescriptions for hydrocodone-containing meds changing Published Sept. 5, 2014 By 412th Medical Group Pharmacy EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Aug. 22, the Drug Enforcement Agency changed all hydrocodone-containing products to Schedule II, a tightly-controlled classification that will change how it is prescribed and dispensed. Products that contain hydrocodone include medications such as Vicodin and Norco, and many generic formulations. The change becomes effective across the United States Oct. 6. What does this mean to pharmacy customers? Effective Oct. 1, patients who are prescribed medication containing hydrocodone products will be required to have a new prescription to obtain these products. A 30-day supply will be the maximum quantity filled per prescription with no refills allowed. If medication is required in excess of 30 days, the patient will need to visit their provider to obtain a new prescription. If you were previously prescribed these medications with refills, the refills will no longer be valid. Please check your supply and make an appointment with your provider for a new prescription prior to depleting your supply. Additionally, prescriptions from civilian (off-base) providers must be written on a "security script" in accordance with California pharmacy laws and cannot be faxed. Prescriptions ordered by 412th Medical Group providers will still be ordered electronically, with the new required restrictions of a maximum of a 30-day supply and no refills. Products that contain hydrocodone dispensed by the 412th MDG Pharmacy include: Generic Vicodin 5mg hydrocodone/300mg acetaminophen Generic Vicodin 7.5mg hydrocodone/300mg acetaminophen Generic Norco 10mg hydrocodone/325mg acetaminophen Generic Norco 5mg hydrocodone/325mg acetaminophen Please contact the pharmacy staff at 661-277-2052 for any questions.