Final answer:
In Tennessee, prescriptions must be written on security prescription paper to be valid. This paper includes features that prevent forgery and tampering. If not compliant, the prescription cannot be legally filled by a pharmacist.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Tennessee, a written (or printed) prescription from a prescriber must be on security prescription paper that meets specific requirements. This is to prevent fraud and to ensure the authenticity of the prescription. Tennessee law, along with federal regulations, are strict about the standards for prescription paper to combat the rise of prescription drug abuse and to maintain controlled substances within regulated channels. Therefore, if a prescription in Tennessee is not written on the correct type of security paper, it is considered invalid and cannot be filled by a pharmacist.
The security prescription paper must contain several features such as watermarks, chemical void protection, and a barcode for tracking. The security paper should be compliant with guidelines set forth by the relevant state boards or agencies that oversee the dispensing of medication. The purpose of these features is to make the prescription difficult to forge or alter. For those handling prescription medications, it is crucial to be familiar with what constitutes valid prescription paper to avoid legal issues and ensure patient safety.