How long is a partial fill for CIII and CIV allowed to be kept before it expires?

For controlled substances classified as CIII (Schedule III) and CIV (Schedule IV), federal regulations stipulate that a partial fill of a prescription is valid for up to six months from the date of issuance. This means that if a patient does not pick up the full quantity of their prescription at once, the remaining quantity can still be dispensed within that six-month timeframe.

The rationale behind this regulation is to provide flexibility for patients who may need only part of their prescribed medication at one time, whether due to personal choice or medical necessity. It is essential for pharmacies to maintain accurate records of partial fills to ensure compliance and patient safety.

Understanding this timeframe helps ensure proper management of controlled substances and adherence to legal requirements, preventing potential miscommunication or misuse of medications.