Is Benefiber (wheat dextrin) considered a controlled substance (KOP) in Idaho prisons?

Benefiber Status in Idaho Prisons

Benefiber (wheat dextrin) is likely allowed as a "keep on person" (KOP) medication in Idaho prisons, particularly for inmates on multiple doses of short-acting oral medications, as long as it aligns with security concerns and institutional policies.

Understanding KOP Status in Correctional Facilities

According to American Diabetes Association guidelines published in Diabetes Care, correctional institutions should implement "keep on person" programs for patients on multiple doses of short-acting oral medications when feasible and consistent with security concerns 1. While these guidelines specifically address diabetes management, they establish a general framework for medication administration in prison settings.

Key Factors Determining KOP Status:

1. Medication Classification:

   • Benefiber (wheat dextrin) is a non-prescription fiber supplement
   • Not a controlled substance
   • Has no abuse potential or street value
   • Contains no psychoactive ingredients

2. Security Considerations:

   • Wheat dextrin poses minimal security risk
   • Cannot be used to manufacture contraband
   • Packaging (typically powder or chewables) presents low risk

3. Medical Department Assessment:

   • Medical department nurses determine whether patients have the necessary skill and responsible behavior for self-administration 1
   • The degree of supervision necessary is evaluated on a case-by-case basis

Implementation of KOP Programs in Prisons

Correctional facilities typically have specific policies regarding which medications can be kept on person. The American Diabetes Association guidelines state that "patients at all levels of custody should have access to medication at dosing frequencies that are consistent with their treatment plan and medical direction" 1.

Practical Considerations:

• Packaging: Benefiber would likely need to be in prison-approved containers
• Quantity Limits: Restrictions on amount possessed at one time
• Documentation: Proper medical authorization required
• Regular Checks: Subject to routine contraband inspections

Potential Exceptions or Restrictions

While Benefiber is likely KOP eligible, certain situations might result in restrictions:

• Individual Security Classification: High-security inmates may have more limited KOP privileges
• Facility-Specific Policies: Each prison may have unique formulary restrictions
• Misuse History: Previous misuse of any KOP medication could result in revocation of privileges

Obtaining Definitive Information

For absolute confirmation of Benefiber's KOP status in Idaho prisons specifically:

1. Contact the Idaho Department of Correction's medical services division
2. Request the current formulary and KOP medication list
3. Consult with the prison's medical director or pharmacist

Conclusion

Based on correctional healthcare guidelines and the non-controlled, low-risk nature of Benefiber (wheat dextrin), it is highly likely to qualify for KOP status in Idaho prisons, subject to individual facility policies and security assessments.