BtMRezept

BtM-Rezept

BtM-Rezept, short for Betäubungsmittel-Rezept, is a special prescription type used in Germany to authorize the dispensing of narcotics and other substances listed in the Betäubungsmittelgesetz (BtMG). The system is designed to control the prescribing and distribution of controlled drugs such as morphine, fentanyl, oxycodone, methadone, and certain codeine-containing preparations, among others.

Legal basis and scope: BtM-Rezepte are issued only by physicians who are authorized to prescribe narcotics. The prescription must be written on an official BtM-Rezept form and includes key information about the patient (name and date of birth, sometimes address), the drug name and dosage form, strength, quantity, and dosing instructions, the date of issue, and the prescriber’s name, address, and license details. A unique prescription number and security features help ensure traceability and prevent forgery. The BtM-Rezept is intended for dispensing by a pharmacy that holds a BtM authorization.

Usage and validity: BtM-Rezepte are subject to strict rules and are typically valid only for a short period, commonly around seven days, depending on the substance and local regulations. They are generally not refilled; if ongoing treatment is necessary, a new BtM-Rezept must be issued. The dispensing pharmacist verifies the prescription, may require patient identification, and records the transaction in the narcotics log and the patient’s records. These controls aim to prevent misuse and diversion.

Variants and evolution: In addition to traditional paper BtM-Rezepte, electronic BtM prescriptions (eBtM) have been introduced in some regions to improve security and traceability, as part of broader efforts toward digital health records and e-prescribing.

See also: Betäubungsmittelgesetz, narcotics regulation, eBtM.