MGL Chapter 94C Section 17 Flashcards

Study Notes

C-II Prescription Validity and Refills

C-II prescriptions are valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
After 30 days, these prescriptions become invalid and cannot be filled.
C-II prescriptions cannot be refilled under any circumstances.

Storage and Handling

Written C-II prescriptions must be stored in a separate file to ensure proper record keeping.
Pharmacists are required to endorse their signature on the face of the prescription when filling it.

Supply Limits and Exceptions

The general maximum supply for C-II and C-III medications is 30 days, but exceptions exist:
- 60-day supply for Dextroamphetamine Sulfate and Methylphenidate HCl for specific conditions.
- 90-day supply for implantable infusion pumps.

Record Keeping

Pharmacies are mandated to retain prescriptions for controlled substances for a duration of 2 years upon inspection.

Refilling Regulations

Not all controlled substances are non-refillable; some can have refills if:
- The original prescription includes refills.
- The prescription specifies the number of allowable refills.
All C-II medications, however, are strictly non-refillable.

Electronic Prescribing

Prescribers can issue electronic prescriptions for controlled substances, adhering to the Department's standards.

Exceptions for Written/Oral Prescriptions

Written/oral prescriptions are permissible in specific scenarios:
- Prescriptions issued by veterinarians.
- Temporary technological or electrical failures preventing electronic prescribing.
- Economic hardships that restrict electronic systems.
- Emergency situations where electronic prescribing would harm the patient's condition.
- Prescriptions that cannot be issued electronically per federal or state regulations.
- Prescriptions from out-of-state sources (not from Massachusetts).
- Other exceptions as determined by the Commissioner under Section 17 G.

Prescription Requirements

Written prescriptions must be completed in:
- Ink.
- Indelible pencil.
- Tamper-resistant forms as required by federal Medicaid standards, and signed by the prescribing practitioner.

Dispensing Controlled Substances

No controlled substances can be dispensed without an electronic prescription from a practitioner.
Controlled substances can be dispensed on a written/oral prescription only under emergency conditions defined by the Commissioner in Section 20 and related regulations.

Description

Test your knowledge of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 94C, Section 17 with these flashcards. Focus on the validity, refilling, and storage of C-II prescriptions. Perfect for pharmacy students and professionals looking to reinforce their understanding of these regulations.