Question

1. only RPh can dispense it

2. max limits for opium is < 240cc (8oz) and other CS < 120 cc (4oz) in any 48-hr period
3. at least 18 years and suitable identification shown
4. bound record book kept for 5 years and contains name/address of purchaser, CS name/quantity, date of purchase, RPh name/initials

Answer 1

The student's question deals with the legal protocols for dispensing prescription opioids, including record-keeping, quantity limits, and the requirement of a registered pharmacist. These regulations are part of efforts to curb opioid abuse and the associated public health crisis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The query relates to the regulations regarding the dispensing of controlled substances (CS), specifically regarding opioids like opium, heroin, fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone, Vicodin, and methadone. The outlined points reference pharmaceutical laws and state protocols on how these substances are to be distributed by a registered pharmacist (RPh), with limitations on quantities within a set period, age verification, and record-keeping requirements for purchases.

Opioids are potent pain relievers derived from opium, and due to their potential for abuse, they are strictly regulated. The misuse of pharmaceutical opioids has given rise to an illegal market and a public health crisis, with many turning to heroin and synthetic drugs like fentanyl, which are cheaper but extremely dangerous. Drug overdoses from opioids have dramatically increased, highlighting the importance of tight controls on prescription drugs.