What caution statement is required on a prescription for controlled substances?

The required caution statement on a prescription for controlled substances is "Caution: federal law prohibits the transfer of this drug to any person other than the patient for whom it was prescribed." This statement emphasizes the legal restrictions associated with controlled substances, which are classified to prevent misuse and ensure they are used only as directed by the prescribing physician.

Including this warning on prescriptions is crucial because it serves to inform patients of the serious legal implications of sharing or transferring their medications. Controlled substances can have high potential for abuse or dependence, and the law is strict regarding their distribution. By clearly stating this caution, the pharmacy ensures that patients understand their responsibility in handling these medications.

In contrast, the other statements may be pertinent in specific contexts but do not address the federal regulations specific to controlled substances. The suggestion to "Use with caution in elderly patients" relates more to clinical considerations than legal concerns. Similarly, warnings about drowsiness or the need to keep medications away from children, while important, do not specifically address the legal aspect of medication transfer associated with controlled substances. Thus, statement A is the most appropriate and required caution for prescriptions in this category.