PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)Federal RequirementsEasy
A pharmacy technician is reviewing a new prescription for a Schedule V controlled substance. What is the maximum number of times this prescription can be refilled, if authorized by the prescriber?
- ANo refills are permitted for Schedule V controlled substances.
- BAs many times as authorized by the prescriber within one year.
- CFive times within six months from the date of issue.
- DThree times within three months from the date of issue.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Five times within six months from the date of issue.
Schedule V controlled substances, like Schedule III and IV substances, are subject to the same federal refill limitations. This includes a maximum of five refills within six months from the date the prescription was issued.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect; Schedule V substances can be refilled.
- B. This rule applies to non-controlled legend drugs, not Schedule V controlled substances.
- D. This is not a recognized federal refill limit for controlled substances.
Controlled Substance Refill Limits (CIII-V)
Federal law dictates specific refill limits for Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substances to prevent misuse and diversion.
- Applies to Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substances.
- Maximum of five refills.
- Must be refilled within six months from the date of issue.
- No refills are allowed for Schedule II controlled substances.
Memory trick: Refill Five times, Six months, C3-5.