What additional information is required on a prescription for a controlled substance aside from the patient’s details?

The necessity of including the quantity of medication to be dispensed on a prescription for a controlled substance is rooted in regulatory requirements and safe medication practices. In the context of controlled substances, quantity is an essential component as it helps ensure that patients receive an appropriate amount of medication while minimizing the potential for abuse or misuse. The quantity specified must align with the prescribing limits and regulations imposed by both federal and state law, including considerations such as the maximum number of days' supply for certain controlled substances.

Including this information protects patients by helping to prevent overprescribing or the possibility of obtaining larger quantities than medically necessary, which can contribute to opioid misuse or dependency issues. Additionally, this detail is crucial for pharmacists when verifying the prescription and ensuring that they dispense the correct amount in accordance with legal guidelines.

Other considerations on the prescription, such as the patient's last visit date, intended use, or the price of the medication, do not have the same level of regulatory requirement or impact on patient safety in this specific context.