SB280 Alabama 2016 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Priscilla Dunn

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2016

Title

Prescription drugs, indication that use of generic drug not allowed, notation by prescribing physician, Sec. 16-25A-18 am'd.

Summary

SB280 lets prescribing physicians prohibit generic substitution for PEEHIP prescriptions by marking, signing, or using electronic indicators.

What This Bill Does

The bill maintains the rule that generics should be used when available unless the prescriber indicates otherwise. It adds that a doctor can indicate 'medically Necessary', 'dispense as written', or 'do not substitute' by mark or signature on paper prescriptions or in electronic prescriptions. Any non-substituted drug dispensed must be pharmaceutically and therapeutically equivalent and contain the same active ingredients, dosage form, and strength. The change applies to prescriptions covered under the Public Education Employees Health Insurance Programs (PEEHIP).

Who It Affects

• PEEHIP patients who may receive non-substituted medications when the prescriber marks or indicates so, affecting cost or brand choice.
• Prescribing physicians and pharmacists who must follow the new indications (mark/signature or electronic) for non-substitution on PEEHIP prescriptions.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 16-25A-18 to allow physicians to indicate not to substitute via mark or signature on the prescription or via electronic prescription.
• Permits the phrases 'medically Necessary', 'dispense as written', or 'do not substitute' to be used as non-substitution indicators.
• Requires that any non-substituted generic be pharmaceutically and therapeutically equivalent and have the same active ingredients, dosage form, and strength.
• Effective date: the first day of the third month following passage and governor's approval (or when it becomes law).

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Prescription Drugs