South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

What does a left signature line signify on a prescription?

1. Substitution permitted

2. Dispense as written (DAW)

3. Refills allowed

4. Patient preference

The correct answer is: Dispense as written (DAW)

A left signature line on a prescription specifically indicates that the prescriber has chosen to enforce that the medication must be dispensed exactly as written, without substitutions. This means that the pharmacist is not permitted to substitute the prescribed drug with a generic or alternative medication, even if one is available that might be less expensive or more preferable in some way. The use of a left signature line is an important component of prescription regulations, as it safeguards the treatment plan determined by the prescriber. By marking the prescription this way, it clearly communicates the prescriber's intention to control the specific medication dispensed to the patient. Understanding this aspect of prescription writing is crucial for pharmacists, as it directly impacts patient care and legal compliance within pharmacy practice. The other options, while relevant to prescription practices, do not pertain to the specific significance of a left signature line.