I believe everyone else is correct about there not being any hard or fast rules. The state in live in (TN), the abuse of opiates is off the charts. I would NOT want to be a PM doc in Tennessee. I actually like the fact that I am watched so closely over my meds. It keeps everyone on top of what and how much I take. Don't know about you, but I write it down in a medicine journal everytime I take something. Pain meds can make you loopey and with my journal, I don't make mistakes because I'm in la-la land! Also, I bring my journal to my PM appts and my doc can look at it and suggest new times and ways to take my meds if need be. Hope that helps a little. Also, if you are not as of yet locking up your meds, please start! Not saying anyone you know would steal your meds, I just think its better to be safe than sorry. Karen