South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

Which item is NOT required on a controlled substance prescription?

1. Full name/address of the patient

2. Drug dosage form

3. Patient's date of birth

4. Drug strength

The correct answer is: Patient's date of birth

The requirement for a prescription for a controlled substance is determined by the regulations set forth by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as well as state laws. A key component of a valid controlled substance prescription includes specific information that must be included to ensure it's filled correctly and legally. The full name and address of the patient are essential to identify the individual for whom the prescription is intended and to prevent misuse. Likewise, including the drug dosage form and drug strength is crucial for ensuring that the right medication is dispensed in the proper form and dosage, which are vital for patient safety. While having a patient’s date of birth can be beneficial for confirming identity and age-related dosage considerations, it is not mandated by law to be present on a controlled substance prescription. This distinction is important for understanding which information is strictly required versus what can aid in the dispensing process. In summary, while patient identification and specifics about the medication are necessary for a controlled substance prescription, the patient's date of birth does not fall under that must-have category.