📅 2026 Update: Changes in Drug Law and Telehealth Access

Since the original article on Gleevec was published, there have been significant updates regarding drug laws and telehealth access in the United States. The focus has shifted toward improving access to treatment for substance use disorders through telemedicine. This update highlights key changes that impact prescribing controlled substances and mental health treatment options.

The earlier article continues further down the page.

🩺 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescribing Controlled Substances

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the DEA have extended telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing controlled substances. This extension is valid through December 31, 2026.

DEA-registered practitioners can now prescribe Schedule II-V medications via telehealth without needing an in-person visit first.

💊 Buprenorphine Telemedicine Prescribing

On January 17, 2025, a final rule was issued making telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing buprenorphine permanent. Buprenorphine is a key medication used in treating opioid use disorder. This change ensures ongoing access to this vital treatment option through telehealth services.

⚖️ Strengthening Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Benefits

Final rules released on September 9, 2024, enhance the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). These rules aim to ensure that mental health and substance use disorder benefits are treated equally to medical and surgical benefits. This change became effective on November 22, 2024, and applies to insurance coverage starting on or after January 1, 2025.

⏳ Processing Times and Eligibility for Telehealth Services

The processing times for telehealth prescriptions can vary by provider. Some may offer same-day consultations, while others might take longer to schedule an appointment. Eligibility for these services requires a video consultation with a DEA-registered practitioner, who will assess the patient's needs and medical history.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • 📅 Telemedicine flexibilities for controlled substances are extended through December 31, 2026.
  • 💊 Buprenorphine prescribing via telehealth is now permanently allowed.
  • ⚖️ New rules strengthen mental health parity in insurance coverage.
  • ⏳ Processing times for telehealth services can differ based on the provider.
  • ✅ Eligibility for telehealth requires a video consultation with a registered practitioner.

💡 Tips for Navigating Drug Laws and Telehealth Services

Consider discussing the specifics of your situation with an attorney.

🚨 Know Your Rights for Telehealth Services

Understand that you have the right to receive telehealth services for controlled substances. Ensure that the provider is DEA-registered to prescribe these medications legally.

📞 Contact Resources for Assistance

If you need help navigating mental health or substance use treatment, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a national helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). They can provide information and treatment referrals.

📝 Prepare for Your Consultation

Before your telehealth appointment, gather relevant medical history and current medications. This preparation helps the practitioner assess your needs effectively.

💻 Explore Telehealth Platforms

Different telehealth platforms have varying policies on prescribing controlled substances. Some providers, like Teladoc Health, do not prescribe these medications. Research platform policies to find a suitable provider.

🏥 Check Insurance Coverage

Insurance acceptance can vary widely among telehealth providers. Review your insurance plan to understand what services are covered and any out-of-pocket costs you might incur.

📊 Stay Informed on Drug Classifications

Drug classifications can change. Stay updated on the status of medications like Adderall or Ambien, which are classified as controlled substances. Knowing their classifications can help you navigate prescriptions more effectively.

🏆 Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section reviews telehealth services that provide access to prescriptions and mental health support, relevant to drug laws and regulations. The order follows Trustpilot ratings as of October 2026 and reflects user experiences. Ratings can change over time, and unhappy customers often leave more reviews, so it's essential to consider multiple factors when evaluating services.

🥇 1. Direct Meds

Direct Meds has been rated 4.6. It is known for its telehealth services focused on GLP-1 medications, including compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide. Reviewers appreciate the quality verification provided by the platform.

However, there is limited insurance acceptance, and some users have reported concerns about medication side effects.

🥈 2. Hims & Hers Health

Hims & Hers Health holds a Trustpilot score of 3.0. This service offers online healthcare, including prescription medications and personal care products. Users have noted the convenience of accessing services online, but there are concerns about customer service and product effectiveness.

🥉 3. LifeStance Health

LifeStance Health has a Trustpilot rating of 4.0. It specializes in mental health services, including therapy and psychiatry, delivered through telehealth. While many users appreciate the accessibility of these services, some experience inconsistent service quality and challenges with appointment availability.

4️⃣ Talkiatry

Talkiatry has been rated 2.4. The service focuses on online psychiatry and medication management. Some reviewers highlight the flexibility in scheduling appointments, but there are issues with limited insurance coverage and variable clinician quality.

🆓 Free Resources for Help

The U.S. Department of Labor provides resources related to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). Patients can contact the Employee Benefits Security Administration for assistance.

Additionally, SAMHSA offers a national helpline for those seeking information on substance use and mental health treatment.

🔎 Choosing the Right Service

  • 🔍 Check the Trustpilot score and number of reviews.
  • 🏷️ Understand the specific services offered.
  • 💳 Review insurance acceptance and payment models.
  • 📅 Consider scheduling flexibility and appointment availability.
  • ⚖️ Look for compliance with telehealth regulations.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the current deadlines for telehealth prescriptions?

Telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing controlled substances are in effect through December 31, 2026. This extension allows continued access to these medications via telehealth.

💬 Can I get buprenorphine treatment via telemedicine?

Yes, buprenorphine treatment can be accessed through telemedicine. Patients should find a provider offering this service and complete any necessary intake forms.

🏥 What should I do if my telehealth provider cannot prescribe controlled substances?

If your chosen telehealth provider does not prescribe controlled substances, consider finding another provider who is DEA-registered. Research different platforms to identify one that meets your needs.

📞 How can I find help for substance use disorders?

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a national helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). They offer information and treatment referrals for substance use disorders.

📝 What is the process for getting a telehealth prescription?

To receive a telehealth prescription for controlled substances, patients must have a video consultation with a DEA-registered practitioner. The practitioner will review the patient's medical history and current condition to determine the appropriateness of prescribing medication.

🔍 How do I know if I'm eligible for buprenorphine treatment?

Eligibility for buprenorphine treatment via telemedicine depends on the patient's medical history and current condition. The provider will assess these factors during the consultation.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Drug Laws

Recent court rulings have impacted drug laws and telehealth services, particularly regarding the prescription of controlled substances and mental health benefits. These cases reflect ongoing legal interpretations of drug regulations and telehealth access.

For more information, browse recent rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






What is Gleevec?



 



 

Gleevec


Gleevec is the brand name for Imatinib, a drug currently marketed by Novartis for the treatment of leukemia and other forms of cancer. Unlike chemotherapy, Gleevec does not kill all cells in a targeted area but inhibits a specific enzyme which prevents cancer cells from growing. This drug is often the first drug prescribed to control leukemia. Gleevec is taken orally and is processed by the liver. Additional experimentation is ongoing to test if Gleevec can help treat pulmonary hypertension. 



 



 



What are the side effects of Gleevec?



 



 



Weight gain, pain, and nausea are common as well as a much more uncommon case of congestive cardiac failure. Some tests show that large doses of Gleevec can damage the myocardium of the heart.  Pregnant women should not take this medication as there is a chance it will result in birth defects. More recently, patients on Gleevic have reported having hearing loss to the FDA. Lastly, Gleevec may cause unpredicted interactions with other medications as it disrupts the natural functioning of enzymes that process medication leading to potentially higher or lower than expected levels of other drugs in a patient’s system. 



 



 



Are generic forms of Gleevec available?



 



 



At this time, the cost of a year’s treatment with Gleevec can range from $32,000 to $98,000 a year with individual pills costing around $20 – 30 dollars. Efforts to manufacture a generic version in India were met by a Novartis lawsuit that had to be taken before the World Trade Organization. 



 



 



What can I do if I experience damage from taking Gleevec?



 



 



Although instances of hearing loss are rare, there is a chance that more instances of hearing loss will come to light in the future. Individuals that experience can pursue litigation to secure damages for medical bills, loss of wages and pain and anguish. Evidence exists that Gleevec can damage the heart, so this should be taken into account when considering your legal options. Most importantly, liability rests with the doctor to monitor side effects while taking this drug and inform the patient of the potential risks. Side effects are common with this drug and failure to inform the patient thusly may represent a breach of professionalism on the part of the doctor.