During a compounded drug shortage, which individuals must request an exemption from the board of pharmacy?

• A. The medical director of the health care facility and the responsible pharmacist
• B. The prescribing physician only
• C. The hospital administrator only
• D. The pharmacist owner only

Answer: (B)

During a compounded drug shortage, the clinician who will use the product must request any exemption, because the decision is tied to the patient’s treatment and the prescriber’s clinical justification. The prescribing physician is the one who determines that a compounded preparation is necessary for a specific patient and must explain why a standard product isn’t suitable or available. The board then reviews that justification and decides whether to grant the exemption. While the medical director, responsible pharmacist, hospital administrator, or pharmacist owner play important roles in facility operation and compliance, they do not initiate exemptions on behalf of a patient. The physician’s direct request reflects the patient-specific clinical need.