S8 benzodiazepines, sodium oxybate, and all S8 medicines not covered elsewhere

Part 6 of the Monitored Medicines Prescribing Code (the Code) outlines the method of application and requirements to be met when applying for authorisation to prescribe Schedule 8 (S8) benzodiazepines, sodium oxybate, and all other Schedule 8s not captured elsewhere in the Code (external site).

S8s not captured elsewhere in the Code includes medicines that are not listed in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) such as compounded medicines.

Part 6 does not apply to the following S8 medicines:

Prior authorisation of the CEO

Written authorisation of the CEO is always required before prescribing S8 benzodiazepines (Alprazolam and Flunitrazepam), sodium oxybate, and any other S8 medicines not captured elsewhere in the Code.

Applying for authorisation

Applications must be on the application form, which must be completed in full and, where required, be accompanied by appropriate supporting documentation.

Application form

Applications for authorisation either need to be submitted by, or the proposed treatment regimen supported by, a medical practitioner who holds specialist registration on the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority (AHPRA) register of practitioners in a Speciality, or Speciality Field, relevant to the diagnosed condition the S8 medicine is being prescribed for.

For example, a medical practitioner who holds specialist registration on the AHPRA register of practitioners in the speciality of ‘psychiatry’ would be considered a relevant specialist for the purpose of treating anxiety with alprazolam.