WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has extended federal telemedicine flexibilities that allow providers to prescribe certain controlled medications remotely, ensuring continued access to care through the end of 2026 .

According to a press release issued Tuesday, the Drug Enforcement Administration, in coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services, approved a fourth temporary extension of COVID-era telemedicine rules for prescribing controlled substances. The extension runs through December 31, 2026 .

Under the extension, DEA-registered practitioners may continue prescribing Schedule II–V controlled medications through audio-video telemedicine visits without first conducting an in-person medical evaluation, as long as prescriptions comply with existing DEA guidance, regulations, and federal and state laws . The policy also allows certain Schedule III–V narcotic medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for opioid use disorder treatment to be prescribed via audio-only telemedicine encounters .

DEA officials said the extension is intended to prevent disruptions in patient care, particularly for individuals in rural or underserved areas, older adults, and patients with mobility limitations. The agency also cited concerns that allowing the previous flexibilities to expire without replacement rules could create backlogs for in-person appointments .

“DEA supports telehealth access for patients who need medication, but not at the expense of public safety,” said Cheri Oz, assistant administrator of the DEA’s Diversion Control Division, in a statement included in the release. She said the rules are designed to expand access while reducing the risk of controlled substances being diverted into the illegal drug market .

The extension coincides with two final rules issued by DEA and HHS earlier this year addressing telemedicine access for buprenorphine treatment and continuity of care for Veterans Affairs patients. Those rules take effect December 31, 2025, and create additional pathways for remote prescribing with specific requirements .

DEA said the temporary extension gives regulators additional time to fully implement long-term telemedicine policies that balance patient access with safeguards against misuse and diversion of controlled medications .