What must a pharmacist do before dispensing a controlled substance?

Before dispensing a controlled substance, a pharmacist must take the essential steps to ensure both the legality and safety of the prescription. This includes verifying that the prescription is valid, as a controlled substance prescription must meet specific regulatory requirements to be lawful. These requirements often include the prescriber's credentials, the appropriateness of the medication for the patient's condition, and compliance with state and federal laws.

Additionally, checking the patient's medication history is crucial to assess any potential drug interactions, contraindications, or previous issues with controlled substances, such as misuse or abuse. This thorough review helps safeguard the patient's health and upholds the pharmacist's responsibility to prevent medication errors and ensure patient safety.

Taking these steps not only aligns with best practices in pharmacy but also fulfills regulatory obligations, minimizing the risk of legal repercussions for the pharmacist and promoting better health outcomes for patients.