NPs cannot prescribe controlled drugs and substances in Ontario

On November 21, 2012, the federal government approved new regulations under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act that remove federal restrictions on NP authority to prescribe controlled substances.

However, this law will not take effect in Ontario because provincial law under the Nursing Act, 1991 prohibits NPs from prescribing controlled substances.

The College will work with members and stakeholders to establish provincial regulations that regulate this aspect of NP practice, in the public interest. In the meantime, it is illegal for NPs in Ontario to prescribe any controlled substance, including narcotics.

The College will provide more detailed information to NPs soon.

For further information about the federal regulations, read the Canada Gazette.

For further information about NP practice, visit www.cno.org/np.