Final answer:
When a pharmacy doesn't have a full supply of a drug, they can provide a partial fill to cover the patient until the rest of the supply arrives.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a pharmacy does not have a full supply of a drug available, they may complete a partial fill, providing a two to five day supply to hold the patient over until the full amount arrives. An emergency fill typically would be in the case of an unforeseen urgency, whereas a partial fill is used when only a portion of the prescription can be dispensed at the current time. The pharmacy should also provide instructions to the patient as to when the remaining medication will be available.