A prescription for Adipex has 1 refill. Can it be dispensed after verifying with the prescriber?

The correct answer is affirmative because confirming the prescription with the prescriber is a crucial step in the pharmacy practice for controlled substances. Adipex, which contains phentermine, is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance, and while the rules around refills for controlled substances can be stringent, they do allow for refills to be honored under certain conditions.

In this case, since the prescription explicitly states it has one refill, and verification with the prescriber confirms that the refill is indeed appropriate and supported by a legitimate medical need, then the refill can be dispensed. This verification process ensures that there is continuity of care and that the prescriber agrees with the refill, maintaining compliance with legal and professional standards.

Understanding this also requires awareness that some controlled substances have varying rules depending on their schedule classification. In this scenario, with a Schedule IV substance, it's important to maintain proper communication with healthcare providers to uphold patient safety and adherence to regulatory requirements. Refills cannot be dispensed solely at the discretion of the pharmacist without confirmation from the prescriber, but with that confirmation, it is permissible.