Can narcotics/controlled-substance prescriptions be accepted by fax or phone?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only by fax
• D. Only by phone

Answer: (B)

The rule is that you must have a verifiable, authenticated prescription for narcotics or other controlled substances. That means a prescription with the prescriber’s original signature (or an approved electronic prescription) and patient-specific details. Receiving a controlled-substance order by fax or by phone does not provide the same level of verification and traceability, making forgery or misuse more likely. For safety and accountability, final dispensing should rely on a signed hard copy or an approved electronic prescription, not a fax or phone transmission. In emergencies, a prescriber may initiate the process by phone, but a signed prescription must follow to complete it.