Prior to dispensing an outpatient prescription for an OARRS drug, the required review period is at least one year.

• A. False
• B. Not specified
• C. Only for high-risk drugs
• D. True

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is the purpose of the PDMP (OARRS) review before dispensing a controlled substance for outpatient use. A twelve-month look-back is required so the pharmacist gets a complete view of the patient’s recent history across providers and pharmacies. This window helps detect patterns like multiple prescribers, overlapping prescriptions, or unusually high quantities that could indicate misuse, diversion, or unsafe combinations. With a full year of data, the pharmacist can make safer decisions about dispensing and intervene when risks surface.

This requirement isn’t limited to high-risk drugs, nor is it optional or unspecified. It applies to OARRS drugs in general, making the statement true.