Final answer:
Per Florida law, registered pharmacists in licensed pharmacies are permitted to dispense C2 and C3 drugs, but specific regulations allow caregivers to assist with the medical use of marijuana. The Florida Department of Health oversees the production and distribution of medical marijuana and issues identification cards to patients and caregivers.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Florida, individuals who are allowed to dispense Schedule II (C2) and Schedule III (C3) drugs are typically registered pharmacists operating in licensed pharmacies. However, there is specific legislation regarding the medical use of marijuana, which allows caregivers to assist patients with the administration of marijuana for medical purposes. The Florida Department of Health regulates centers that produce and distribute marijuana for medical use and issues identification cards to patients and their caregivers. This is in compliance with Florida law for the medical use of marijuana for individuals with debilitating diseases as determined by a licensed Florida physician. Despite the established regulations to prevent abuse, Florida has faced significant challenges with prescription drug abuse in the past, particularly related to so-called "pill mill" clinics. These pill mills greatly contributed to the over-prescription and diversion of opioid medications such as Oxycodone. Strict regulations by Federal Law and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) aim to ensure the safety and efficacy of these drugs, but this can also lead to delays in drug availability. While these regulations protect the public from unsafe medications, they can also disadvantage patients who may have to wait longer for access to new treatments due to the lengthy approval process.