What should a pharmacist verify before dispensing a controlled substance?

Before dispensing a controlled substance, it is essential for a pharmacist to verify the patient's prescription history and proper documentation. This step is critical in ensuring the safety and appropriateness of the medication for the patient. Checking the prescription history allows the pharmacist to identify any potential issues, such as previous prescriptions for the same or similar medications, possible drug interactions, potential misuse or abuse patterns, and the patient's overall medication management.

Proper documentation is vital to comply with legal and regulatory requirements surrounding the dispensing of controlled substances. It ensures that prescriptions are valid and that the pharmacist adheres to the guidelines set forth by state and federal regulations. By confirming these details, the pharmacist plays a key role in safeguarding public health and ensuring that controlled substances are used safely and effectively.