Can a Georgia NP prescribe controlled substances?
A Georgia NP can prescribe controlled substances, but only under specific limits and safeguards. An NP may be delegated authority to order controlled substances from a formulary, yet may not order Schedule I or II controlled substances12.
Before prescribing Schedules III–V, the Composite Medical Board must review and find the nurse protocol agreement compliant, and the NP must obtain a DEA number3. The protocol must also include procedures for ordering controlled substances and require that any patient receiving a controlled substance prescription be evaluated by the delegating or designated physician at least quarterly4.
Additionally, a physician may not delegate controlled-substance prescribing for themselves, their immediate family, the APRN, or the APRN’s immediate family5.
Citations
- 2024 Georgia Code §43-34-23 (b)(1)(B)(i-iii)
- Georgia Board of Nursing Rule 410-11.14 (2)(e)(1)
- FAQs Regarding Nurse Practitioners and Protocol Agreements (Revised Jul. 2015; Last Visited July 29, 2025)
- Georgia Board of Nursing Rule 410-11.14 (2)
- Georgia Composite Medical Board Rule 360-32-.04 (6)
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