What should be done if a pharmacist believes a prescription is invalid?

When a pharmacist believes that a prescription is invalid, the appropriate course of action is to refuse to fill the prescription and document the reason for this decision. This choice is correct because pharmacists have a professional obligation to ensure that all prescriptions they encounter are valid and legal. Filling an invalid prescription can lead to serious consequences for both the pharmacy and the patient, including adverse health outcomes, legal repercussions, and potential disciplinary action against the pharmacist.

By refusing to fill the prescription, the pharmacist protects both the patient and their practice. Documenting the reason for the refusal creates a record that can be critical in case of future inquiries or audits regarding the pharmacist's decision-making process. This practice ensures accountability and maintains the integrity of the pharmacy profession.

Other options may not adequately address the situation. For instance, contacting law enforcement immediately can be an overreaction and may not be appropriate if the prescription is simply questionable and not clearly illegal. Calling the doctor to confirm the prescription can be part of the process in certain cases, but it does not replace the necessity of refusing to fill a potentially invalid prescription unless there is clear confirmation of its validity. Filling the prescription regardless of doubts raises professional and ethical concerns, jeopardizing patient safety and the pharmacist's legal standing.