South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

Is a faxed prescription for a C2 considered the original if it is given directly to the patient through IV, IM, SQ, or intraspinal?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: True

In South Carolina and under federal law, a faxed prescription for a Schedule II controlled substance (C2) can indeed be considered the original prescription if it meets specific criteria. One of the key stipulations is that the prescription is transmitted directly to a pharmacy for the purpose of dispensing for immediate patient treatment. When a medication is to be administered directly to a patient via specific routes such as intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SQ), or intraspinal, the faxed prescription can serve as the original copy. This is particularly important in clinical settings where timely administration of medication is essential for patient care. The intent behind allowing a faxed prescription to qualify as an original in these cases is to facilitate prompt access to necessary medications when there are legitimate medical needs. It underscores the recognition of the various methods of patient treatment in a controlled and regulated manner within the pharmacy practice. In situations outside of these specific requirements, faxed prescriptions for C2 medications may not hold the same standing as an original written prescription, highlighting the importance of understanding the conditions under which a faxed prescription is permissible and accepted.