What should a pharmacist do if a patient requests a refill for a CII prescription after partial filling it?

When a patient requests a refill for a CII (Schedule II) prescription after it has been partially filled, it's essential to first verify if the original prescription is still valid. In the context of controlled substances, a prescription for a CII drug cannot be refilled—it must be filled completely within a designated timeframe. However, when a partial fill has occurred, the pharmacist should confirm whether the prescription has expired or if it is still valid for the remaining quantity.

If the prescription is still active and has not reached its expiration date—typically one year from the date written—it may be possible to fill the remainder of the prescription. Under certain conditions, federal and state regulations allow for partial fills, and the pharmacist must ensure compliance with the specific rules governing the prescription. Therefore, checking if the prescription has expired is a necessary first step before any further action can be taken regarding the patient's request for a refill.

While it is true that CII prescriptions cannot be "refilled" in the traditional sense, and the patient's request cannot lead to an immediate refill, confirming the prescription's validity is critical for determining if the remaining medication can be dispensed.