Pharmacy Law Practice Exam

If a dispensing pharmacist does not indicate the quantity on a prescription refill, what is assumed?

1. It is a partial refill

2. The full face amount is dispensed

3. It is voided

4. It requires further authorization

The correct answer is: The full face amount is dispensed

When a dispensing pharmacist does not indicate the quantity on a prescription refill, it is generally assumed that the full face amount of the original prescription is to be dispensed. This principle is supported by pharmacy law, which states that the quantity specified in the initial prescription stands unless otherwise noted. The rationale behind this assumption is to ensure that patients receive the necessary amount of medication they require, as specified by their prescribing healthcare provider. This approach minimizes interruptions in medication therapy and helps maintain the continuity of care for patients. It is important for pharmacists to understand this assumption because it emphasizes the responsibility they have in ensuring accurate and complete medication dispensing while adhering to regulatory standards and best practices. A pharmacist should also exercise due diligence in cases where there might be ambiguity in the prescription to confirm with the prescribing provider if needed.