South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

Are preprinted prescription blanks for controlled drugs allowed?

1. Yes, with restrictions

2. No, they are prohibited

3. Yes, for certain controlled substances

4. They must be signed by a supervising physician

The correct answer is: No, they are prohibited

Preprinted prescription blanks for controlled drugs are not permissible because they pose significant risks related to prescription integrity and security. The primary concern is that preprinted forms can facilitate prescription fraud and abuse, particularly for controlled substances, which are already heavily regulated due to their potential for misuse. Pharmacy regulations prioritize patient safety and the prevention of drug diversion. By not allowing preprinted prescription blanks for controlled drugs, regulatory bodies aim to ensure that each prescription is specifically tailored to the patient and indicates a legitimate medical need established through an appropriate healthcare provider's examination. This policy helps maintain the integrity of the prescribing process and the management of controlled substances. It's important to recognize that regulations concerning prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, can vary by state. However, the overarching goal is to safeguard against misuse and to ensure that medications are dispensed only when there is a valid medical necessity substantiated by a direct interaction between the patient and the prescribing physician.