When transferring a controlled substance prescription, what must be included about the receiving pharmacy?

• A. DEA of receiving pharmacy.
• B. Receiving pharmacy's phone number.
• C. The original prescription's fill date.
• D. The patient's birth date.

Answer: (C)

Transferring a controlled substance prescription relies on a clear, auditable trail that ties the transfer back to the original order. The date the original prescription was filled provides the essential starting point for the prescription’s lifecycle. It lets the receiving pharmacist verify when the medication first became active, assess how much time has passed, and determine how many refills (if any) remain within regulatory limits. This timing information is crucial for ensuring the transfer is legitimate and that the patient’s dispensing history remains accurate. While other details about the receiving pharmacy may also be recorded during a transfer, the original fill date is the specific data point that anchors the prescription in time and supports proper oversight.