Washington Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence MPJE Practice Exam

How many times may Schedule III and IV prescriptions be refilled within a 6-month period?

1. 3 times

2. 5 times

3. Unlimited

4. Not at all

The correct answer is: 5 times

Schedule III and IV prescriptions in the United States can indeed be refilled up to a maximum of five times within a six-month period from the date the prescription is originally filled. This regulation is designed to ensure that patients have adequate access to necessary medication while still maintaining appropriate oversight and control over the dispensation of substances that have potential for abuse. The five-refill limit provides a balance between patient care and safety, encouraging adherence to treatment regimens while minimizing the risk associated with the misuse of controlled substances. It is important for pharmacists and healthcare practitioners to monitor refills to prevent overuse or diversion and to ensure proper patient management. In contrast to this, the other options do not align with the current regulations governing Schedule III and IV medications. For instance, allowing only three refills would not meet the regulatory standard set forth by state and federal guidelines, and stating that prescriptions can be refilled an unlimited number of times undermines the controlled nature of these medications. Similarly, asserting that refills are not permissible at all contradicts the established allowances for these schedules.