South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

Which practitioners are authorized to prescribe all controlled substances?

1. Physicians (MD, DO), dentists, podiatrists, vets

2. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants

3. Pharmacists and chiropractors

4. Sports medicine specialists only

The correct answer is: Physicians (MD, DO), dentists, podiatrists, vets

The correct choice highlights that physicians (MDs and DOs), dentists, podiatrists, and veterinarians possess the broadest authority when it comes to prescribing controlled substances. These practitioners are licensed under their respective governing bodies to engage in the practice of medicine or dental care, which includes the authority to prescribe various schedules of controlled substances for their patients. Each of these professions has undergone extensive training and is held to strict professional standards, allowing them to assess patient needs comprehensively and provide appropriate treatment options that may involve controlled substances. This authority reflects their roles in direct patient care and the necessity of having the capacity to manage pain, treat infections, or otherwise ensure that patients receive the medications they require for their health and well-being. The other choices consist of practitioners who have more restricted prescribing capabilities. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants often have a limited scope depending on state laws and may require collaboration or supervision from a physician. Pharmacists and chiropractors cannot prescribe all controlled substances—pharmacists are responsible for dispensing medications as prescribed, while chiropractors primarily focus on musculoskeletal health and typically do not have prescribing authority. Lastly, sports medicine specialists do not have a unique status allowing them to prescribe all controlled substances beyond what is granted to physicians in general; rather,