| (a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide
standards for pharmacists engaged in the dispensing of opioid antagonists
as authorized in Chapter 483 of the Health and Safety Code.
(b) Definitions.
(1) Opioid antagonist--Any drug that binds to opioid
receptors and blocks or otherwise inhibits the effects of opioids
acting on those receptors.
(2) Opioid-related drug overdose--A condition, evidenced
by symptoms such as extreme physical illness, decreased level of consciousness,
constriction of the pupils, respiratory depression, or coma, that
a layperson would reasonably believe to be the result of the consumption
or use of an opioid.
(3) Prescriber--A person authorized by law to prescribe
an opioid antagonist.
(c) Dispensing.
(1) A pharmacist may dispense an opioid antagonist
under a valid prescription, including a prescription issued by a standing
order, to:
(A) a person at risk of experiencing an opioid-related
drug overdose; or
(B) a family member, friend, or other person in a position
to assist a person described by subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.
(2) A prescription dispensed under this section is
considered as dispensed for a legitimate medical purpose in the usual
course of professional practice.
(3) A pharmacist who, acting in good faith and with
reasonable care, dispenses or does not dispense an opioid antagonist
under a valid prescription is not subject to any criminal or civil
liability or any professional disciplinary action for:
(A) dispensing or failing to dispense the opioid antagonist;
or
(B) if the pharmacist chooses to dispense an opioid
antagonist, any outcome resulting from the eventual administration
of the opioid antagonist.
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