Which set of elements is required on controlled-substance prescriptions?

• A. Date prescription was issued; Prescriber's signature; Patient's full name and address; Quantity to be supplied in words and numerals.
• B. Date prescription was issued; Pharmacist's license number; Patient's nickname; Medication dosage only
• C. Prescriber name; Pharmacy address; Patient's phone number; Drug form
• D. Insurer name; Billing code; Patient's full name; Prescriber age

Answer: (A)

Controlled-substance prescriptions must have identifying details tied to both the patient and the prescriber, plus a clear, tamper-resistant indication of how much to dispense. The date the prescription was issued confirms when the order was created. The prescriber’s signature authenticates the authorization. The patient’s full name and address identify who will receive the medication and support record-keeping. Writing the quantity in both words and numerals helps prevent alterations to the amount being dispensed. Other items shown in the choices—such as a pharmacist’s license number on the prescription, a nickname for the patient, or extraneous billing or contact details—are not required components of the controlled-substance prescription itself. (In practice, the prescriber’s DEA number is also typically required, but that detail isn’t reflected in these options.)