Partial refilling of C-III and C-IV prescriptions: which statement is true?

• A. Partial filling is prohibited for C-III and C-IV.
• B. Partial filling is allowed, the remaining quantity may be dispensed within 6 months, and is recorded the same as a refill.
• C. Partial fills count as a new prescription.
• D. Partial filling is allowed but must be completed within 12 months.

Answer: (B)

Partial filling is allowed for Schedule III and Schedule IV medications. The pharmacist may dispense part of the prescribed quantity now, and the remaining quantity may be dispensed within six months from the date the prescription was issued. The remaining portion is not a new prescription; it stays tied to the original order, and the amount dispensed and the date are recorded the same as a refill in the patient’s prescription record. If the balance isn’t dispensed within six months, it cannot be dispensed. This arrangement supports patient access while maintaining control over these drugs.