When can a pharmacist dispense a controlled substance without a prescription?

A pharmacist may dispense a controlled substance without a prescription in specific situations defined by law, one of which is during emergencies. This typically involves scenarios where immediate treatment is necessary to avoid harm to the patient, and there is insufficient time to obtain a prescription. Regulations allow for the pharmacist to provide a limited quantity of the controlled substance to meet the patient's immediate needs while ensuring that all appropriate documentation and procedures are followed.

Dispensing under other circumstances, such as at any time without restrictions, based solely on patient requests, or simply when the pharmacy is open, does not comply with the controlled substance regulations. These options fail to recognize the stringent requirements established for the dispensing of controlled medications, which are designed to prevent abuse and ensure patient safety.