To dispense controlled substances, a pharmacist must know the requirements for a valid prescription which are described in this section. A prescription is an order for medication which is dispensed to or for an ultimate user. A prescription is not an order for medication which is dispensed for immediate administration to the ultimate user (i.e., an order to dispense a drug to an inpatient for immediate administration in a hospital is not a prescription).
A prescription for a controlled substance must be dated and signed on the date when issued. The prescription must include the patient’s full name and address, and the practitioner’s full name, address, and DEA registration number.