What should be done with a prescription that has no refills listed?

When a prescription has no refills indicated, the appropriate course of action is to obtain a new prescription from the prescriber. This is necessary because most prescriptions, especially for controlled substances or ongoing therapies, typically include instructions on how many times a medication can be refilled. If a prescription does not specify any refills, it signifies that the prescriber intends for the patient to have only one supply and that a new evaluation may be needed before further medication is dispensed. This requirement helps ensure that the prescriber can assess the patient's ongoing need for the medication, any potential side effects, and proper management of their treatment plan.

Filling a prescription as is without any refills could potentially lead to issues, particularly if the medication is critical for the patient's health. Similarly, refilling indefinitely or consulting patients without a prescription from the prescriber does not adhere to safe pharmacy practices. Obeying the requirement for a new prescription supports patient safety and regulatory compliance in pharmacy operations.