Pharmacy Law Practice Exam

Which of the following is a required element on a prescription for controlled substances?

1. A record of the patient's medical history

2. The name of the medication with the total cost

3. The registration number of the practitioner

4. The phone number of the pharmacy

The correct answer is: The registration number of the practitioner

A required element on a prescription for controlled substances is the registration number of the practitioner. This number, typically known as the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) registration number, is essential for identifying that the practitioner is authorized to prescribe controlled substances. It ensures that medication is prescribed within the legal framework established for controlled substances, which are closely monitored due to their potential for abuse and dependency. Including the practitioner's registration number serves to validate the legitimacy of the prescription and supports tracking and accountability in the prescribing process. It is critical for the pharmacy to verify the prescriber's credentials to ensure compliance with federal and state laws pertaining to the dispensing of controlled substances. In contrast, elements such as a record of the patient's medical history, the total cost of the medication, or the phone number of the pharmacy are not required components of a controlled substance prescription, although they may be useful or customary in certain scenarios.