What action must a prescriber take if a controlled substance is not filled within a specific period of time?

When a prescriber issues a prescription for a controlled substance, it typically has a validity period during which it must be filled. If the prescription is not filled within that specific time frame, the prescriber is required to take action to ensure the prescription is no longer valid, which is why marking it as void is the correct action. This helps prevent misuse or diversion of controlled substances, as a valid prescription must be filled and used appropriately.

By marking a prescription as void, the prescriber essentially cancels the ability for that prescription to be filled after the designated time has passed. This step also helps maintain an accurate, legal, and ethical approach to prescribing controlled substances, ensuring that patients receive their medications within an appropriate time and that there is a clear, documented process in place to manage prescriptions.

In contrast to the correct action, reissuing the prescription would assume that the original had no issues, while verifying with the pharmacy or notifying the patient does not address the legal status of an unfilled controlled substance prescription directly. Marking the prescription as void is a necessary step to mitigate risks associated with unfilled prescriptions within the specific time limits outlined by law.