What is the proper procedure to follow when dispensing sample medications?
Questions frequently come to the Board office regarding the proper dispensing of sample medications. First of all it needs to be stated that there is no exemption from the packaging, labeling, and record keeping requirements of law for sample prescription drugs. State law clearly provides for labeling of prescription drugs dispensed to the public at G.S. 106-134.1(b). This includes a label affixed to the container with the name of the patient, directions for use, etc. Federal law also provides, as a general rule, that prescription drugs shall be dispensed in child resistant (safety closure) containers. The Board’s rule on patient counseling and prospective drug use review also applies to sample prescription drugs. It is acknowledged that the dispensing of most sample medications does not comply with state and federal law as noted above. It is also true that the staff of the Pharmacy Board has much to do with 8,000 licensees and over 2,000 permits. We must, therefore, prioritize matters
