Is emergency filling of non-controlled drugs allowed in Virginia without the prescriber's authorization?

In Virginia, the law does allow for emergency filling of non-controlled drugs without the prescriber’s authorization under certain circumstances. This policy is in place to prevent interruptions in necessary medication therapy when immediate access is critical for the patient's health.

For non-controlled substances, the pharmacist can use their professional judgment to provide a small supply of the medication when the patient is unable to obtain a refill due to an emergency or other unavoidable situation. This is particularly applicable when the prescription has been previously filled, and the patient has an established history with the medication.

Such provisions are designed to enhance patient care and ensure continuity of treatment while maintaining safety and oversight for the medication being dispensed. However, it is essential for pharmacists to document the circumstances that warranted the emergency filling and to attempt to obtain prescriber authorization as soon as possible thereafter. This process supports patient safety while also adhering to legal requirements in pharmacy practice.