When is Consumer Medication Information (CMI) required to be dispensed?

Consumer Medication Information (CMI) is a requirement in pharmacy practice established to enhance patient safety and medication adherence by providing important details about medications. The correct scenario for when CMI must be dispensed is with new prescriptions.

This requirement aims to educate patients about the medications they are receiving for the first time, which is crucial for fostering understanding of the indicated use, potential side effects, and any specific administration instructions. Providing this information with a new prescription supports informed decision-making for the patient and is essential for establishing safe medication practices.

While refills and over-the-counter medications may require other types of patient information or counseling, the specific mandate for CMI is anchored in the dispensing process of new prescriptions, emphasizing the importance of initial education on newly started therapies.