South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

If a patient requests a lesser quantity than prescribed for a C2 medication, what happens to the remaining quantity?

1. The patient can obtain it at a later date

2. The pharmacy must keep it for 30 days

3. The prescription is voided

4. The patient cannot get the rest at a later date

The correct answer is: The patient cannot get the rest at a later date

When a patient requests a lesser quantity of a controlled substance, particularly a Schedule II (CII) medication, it is important to understand the regulations governing these prescriptions. When a patient opts to take a smaller amount than what was originally prescribed, the remaining quantity does not remain available for later dispensing. This is due to the stringent regulations surrounding the dispensation of controlled substances. Once a pharmacist receives a prescription, they are obligated to adhere to the specific instructions concerning dosage and quantity as presented. If the patient chooses to accept only part of the prescribed amount, the remainder cannot simply be held for future dispensing. This helps prevent issues with potential misuse or diversion of controlled substances. The standard regulatory practice is that the patient cannot return for additional quantities at a later date if they have initially chosen not to fill the entire prescription. Instead, a new prescription would need to be written for any subsequent medication dispensing. This approach reinforces the tightly controlled nature of CII medications and the emphasis on responsible prescribing and dispensing practices.