How quickly must the remaining balance of a partial fill for a CII be dispensed?

In the context of partial fills for a Schedule II controlled substance (CII), federal law allows a pharmacist to provide a partial fill provided that the remaining balance of the prescription is dispensed within 72 hours from the time of the first fill. This time frame is critical to ensure that patients receive their necessary medications in a timely manner while also adhering to the legal restrictions placed on controlled substances.

If the remaining quantity is not dispensed within this 72-hour window, the pharmacist is required to reach out to the prescriber for further instructions. This regulation helps address both patient care needs and regulatory compliance regarding the handling of controlled substances. By maintaining this structure, the integrity of controlled substances is upheld, reducing the risk of misuse or diversion.

Understanding this policy is essential for pharmacy professionals in order to comply with federal regulations and to fulfill their duty to provide appropriate patient care while managing controlled substances responsibly.