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FAQs

Answering your questions about prescribing controlled drugs and substances
​​

Have questions about prescribing controlled drugs and substances? Submit them via the standards support form.

Can NPs prescribe medications to treat ADHD in adults?

Yes, depending on which medication they are prescribing. NPs only prescribe medications that they are authorized and competent to prescribe, and they consult and refer as appropriate.

NPs must have met the standards, limits and conditions for prescribing controlled drugs and substances before prescribing any ADHD medications that are controlled drugs or substances.

For more information about the BCCNM Standards, Limits and Conditions for prescribing and other applicable standards see Scope of Practice for Nurse Practitioners.

Drug

Is it within scope of practice for NPs to prescribe?

Comments

Methyphenidate
(such as Ritalin, Concerta, Biphentin, Fosquest)

Yes for both children and adults

 

Dextroamphetamine (such as Dexedrine)

Yes for both children and adults

 

Atomoxetine (such as Straterra)

Yes for both children and adults

 

Guanfacine (such as Intuniv)

Yes for both children and adults

 

Mixed Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine (such as Adderall)

Yes for both children and adults  new !

Limit on adult prescribing rescinded Dec. 20, 2023.  

Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate (such as Vyvanse)

Yes for both children and adults

 

Do I need to send my certificate to BCCNM when I complete my CDS prescribing course?
No, you don't need to send your certificate to BCCNM. However, we recommend that you retain your certificate as a record of your professional development.​






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info@bccnm​.ca
604.742.6200​
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We acknowledge the rights and title of the First Nations on whose collective unceded territories encompass the land base colonially known as British Columbia. We give specific thanks to the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking peoples the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) and sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations and the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh-ulh Sníchim speaking Peoples the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), on whose unceded territories BCCNM’s office is located. We also give thanks for the medicines of these territories and recognize that laws, governance, and health systems tied to these lands and waters have existed here for over 9000 years.

We also acknowledge the unique and distinct rights, including rights to health and wellness, of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples from elsewhere in Canada who now live in British Columbia. As leaders in the settler health system, we acknowledge our responsibilities to these rights under international, national, and provincial law.​