HB23-1183 is a bill introduced in the Colorado House of Representatives in 2023 that aims to regulate the sale and use of certain prescription drugs in the state. Specifically, the bill targets prescription drugs that are known to be highly addictive and potentially dangerous, such as opioids and benzodiazepines.

One of the main provisions of the bill is the creation of a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) in the state. The PDMP would be a centralized database that tracks the dispensing of certain controlled substances, allowing doctors and pharmacists to identify patients who may be at risk for addiction or overdose. The goal of the PDMP is to help prevent “doctor shopping” and other forms of prescription drug abuse.

In addition to the PDMP, HB23-1183 would also establish new regulations around the prescribing and dispensing of certain controlled substances. For example, the bill would require doctors to check the PDMP before prescribing opioids or benzodiazepines to a patient, and would limit initial prescriptions for these drugs to a seven-day supply (with exceptions for certain medical conditions).

The bill has received support from a range of organizations, including the Colorado Medical Society, the Colorado Hospital Association, and the Colorado Pharmacists Society. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to address the ongoing opioid epidemic in Colorado and to improve patient safety.

However, the bill has also faced some criticism from those who believe it may place undue burden on patients and healthcare providers. Some have raised concerns about the potential for the PDMP to infringe on patient privacy, while others have argued that the seven-day limit on certain prescriptions may make it more difficult for patients with chronic pain to receive the medication they need.

Overall, HB23-1183 represents an important effort to address the issue of prescription drug abuse and overdose in Colorado. While there may be some challenges and concerns associated with the bill, its supporters argue that the potential benefits for public health and safety are well worth the effort