Pharmacy Law Practice Exam

Can a practitioner dispense up to a 20-day supply of a drug sample in Schedule VI to a patient?

1. Yes, they can

2. No, they cannot

3. Only in emergencies

4. Only under special circumstances

The correct answer is: Yes, they can

A practitioner can indeed dispense up to a 20-day supply of a drug sample in Schedule VI to a patient because Schedule VI substances, which typically include certain medications that are considered to have low potential for abuse, can be managed more flexibly in terms of dispensing rules. Drug samples are often provided by manufacturers to help practitioners assess the effectiveness of a medication with their patients before committing to a pharmacy supply. The allowance for a 20-day supply is in line with regulations that aim to promote access to medication while ensuring that practitioners maintain appropriate oversight over patient treatment. This approach allows healthcare providers to initiate therapy in a controlled manner, ensuring that patients can receive early treatment without the delay or cost associated with a full pharmacy prescription. A 20-day supply can also help identify any potential issues with the medication before a longer prescription is issued. In many jurisdictions, regulations governing the dispensing of drug samples by practitioners support this practice, recognizing the therapeutic needs of patients while managing medications responsibly.