South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

When must an internet pharmacy report controlled substances dispensed?

1. If they dispense 50 or more prescriptions

2. If they dispense 100 or more prescriptions or 5,000 units per month

3. If they are audited

4. Monthly regardless of quantity

The correct answer is: If they dispense 100 or more prescriptions or 5,000 units per month

An internet pharmacy is required to report controlled substances dispensed when they meet specific thresholds that relate to the volume of prescriptions. The correct answer highlights that this obligation arises when an internet pharmacy dispenses either 100 or more prescriptions or 5,000 units of controlled substances in a month. This requirement is aimed at monitoring and ensuring proper regulation of controlled substances to prevent misuse and abuse. This regulation serves as a safeguard for public health and safety, enabling state and federal authorities to track high-volume dispensing activities that could indicate potential diversion or illegal distribution of controlled substances. Additionally, the thresholds set forth ensure that pharmacies that operate at a larger scale are held to reporting standards, thus allowing for effective oversight. The option stating that pharmacies must report if they dispense 50 or more prescriptions does not align with the higher threshold established by regulation, making it insufficient for the reporting requirement. The choice indicating that reporting is required only if audited lacks the proactive nature of monitoring that is necessary for regulatory compliance, while a monthly requirement regardless of quantity would be overly burdensome and not reflective of the intent of the regulations.