What should a pharmacist do if a hard copy emergency prescription for a CII is not received within the stipulated time?

When a pharmacist receives an emergency oral prescription for a Schedule II controlled substance, federal regulations stipulate that the prescriber must provide a written confirmation of that prescription within a specific timeframe, typically within 7 days. If the hard copy of the prescription is not received within this stipulated period, the pharmacist is required to take specific actions in compliance with legal regulations.

Contacting the prescriber to check on the mailing status is an appropriate course of action. This step ensures that the pharmacist verifies whether the prescription was sent and addresses any potential issues with its delivery. It also helps maintain compliance with legal requirements and ensures that the patient has the necessary medication without risking violations related to the handling of controlled substances.

Doing so allows for direct communication with the prescriber and can facilitate a resolution, such as resending the prescription or clearing up any ambiguities regarding authorization. By following this procedure, the pharmacist protects both the patient’s interests and their own professional liability regarding the dispensing of controlled substances.

In contrast, continuing to fill the prescription without the requisite written confirmation or filing the oral prescription as written would not align with regulatory requirements and could lead to significant legal repercussions. Notifying the patient about the absence of the hard copy prescription is helpful, but does not address compliance and the