Final answer:
In North Carolina, prescriptions can be transferred more than once, with certain restrictions and guidelines. Non-controlled substance prescriptions can be transferred between pharmacies as per the patient's request. However, Schedule III-V controlled substances can only be transferred once, with any remaining refills obtained from the original pharmacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
In North Carolina, prescriptions can be transferred more than once. However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines that must be followed. According to the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, a prescription may be transferred only once unless it is for a Schedule III-V controlled substance. In the case of a Schedule III-V controlled substance, the prescription can be transferred up to the maximum number of refills allowed by law or the prescriber.
For example, let's say a patient has a prescription for a non-controlled substance like antibiotics. This prescription can be transferred from one pharmacy to another, as per the patient's request. However, if the prescription is for a Schedule III-V controlled substance like a pain medication, it can only be transferred once. After that, any remaining refills must be obtained from the original pharmacy where the prescription was first filled.
It's also important to note that the prescription transfer must be done between licensed pharmacists or registered pharmacy technicians. The transferring pharmacist or technician must document the transfer and include important details such as the name, address, and DEA number of both the transferring and receiving pharmacies, as well as the prescription number and date of the transfer.