Question

a patient requests a refill for a hydrocodone/acetaminophen (vicodin) prescription. which of the following actions should a pharmacy technician take?

process and fill the refill for the patient.
inform the patient that their provider will need to submit a new prescription.
add a one-time emergency refill to the prescription.
contact the prescriber for a refill.

Explanation:

Identify the drug classification

Hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin) is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act.

Determine refill regulations for Schedule II substances

According to federal law, prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances cannot be refilled under any circumstances. A new, valid prescription is required for each fill.

Evaluate the options based on regulations

Because refills are prohibited for Schedule II medications, the technician cannot process a refill, contact the prescriber for a refill authorization, or add an emergency refill. The patient must obtain a completely new prescription from their healthcare provider.

Answer:

• Process and fill the refill for the patient.
• Inform the patient that their provider will need to submit a new prescription. (Correct answer)
• Add a one-time emergency refill to the prescription.
• Contact the prescriber for a refill.