What is the maximum quantity that a hospital, infirmary clinic, or hospice can dispense of a C2 with a countersigned 24-hour written or verbal order?

The maximum quantity that a hospital, infirmary clinic, or hospice can dispense of a Schedule II (C2) medication with a countersigned 24-hour written or verbal order is 7 days. This regulation is in place to ensure that the dispensing of controlled substances is closely monitored, reducing the risk of misuse while still allowing for timely patient care.

In a hospital or similar setting, the ability to dispense a limited quantity of a C2 drug facilitates immediate treatment for patients while ensuring that sufficient oversight is maintained. The 7-day limit strikes a balance between providing necessary medications for acute care situations and preventing excessive amounts from being dispensed without adequate review. This standard helps both in managing inventory and in adhering to regulations intended to minimize the potential for abuse of controlled substances, particularly powerful medications classified as Schedule II.

Understanding this limit is crucial for healthcare providers in these settings, as it informs their practice of medication dispensing and aligns with regulatory compliance.