How long is a CIII-CV prescription valid from the date written?

A prescription for a controlled substance listed in Schedule III, IV, or V (CIII-CV) is valid for six months from the date it is prescribed. This timeframe is established under federal law, which governs the prescribing of controlled substances. Once the six-month period elapses, the prescription can no longer be filled, even if the medication is still needed.

Understanding the validity period is essential for pharmacists and healthcare providers to ensure compliance with regulations surrounding controlled substances. This regulation helps prevent misuse and ensures proper monitoring of prescriptions, especially with substances that have potential for dependence and abuse.

Shorter durations for validity periods, such as three months or one year, apply to other types of prescriptions or different classes of controlled substances. However, the established six-month validity for CIII-CV allows sufficient time for refills and adjustments as necessary while still maintaining regulations to uphold patient safety. A prescription being valid indefinitely does not apply, as it could lead to potential abuse and would conflict with the safeguards in place for controlled substance distribution.