What special requirements are there for a prescription written for gamma-hydroxybutyric acid?

A prescription for gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) carries specific requirements due to its classification as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, except when it is prescribed for specific medical conditions. In this context, the medical need must be explicitly stated on the prescription. This documentation serves as a justification for the use of GHB, which is critical due to its potential for abuse and the legal restrictions surrounding it.

The requirement to document the medical need ensures that prescribers and pharmacists are aware of the legitimate use of this substance and helps protect against misuse. It emphasizes the importance of careful monitoring of prescriptions for substances that have high potential for abuse.

Other options suggest either a lack of requirements or various additional administrative burdens like requiring two prescribers or mandatory federal filing, which do not reflect the specific regulatory framework governing GHB prescriptions. Therefore, the stipulation for stating the medical necessity on the prescription is a necessary measure to uphold safe and lawful pharmacy practice when handling this controlled substance.