What is the maximum number of refills allowed for Schedule IV drugs within a six-month period?

The maximum number of refills allowed for Schedule IV controlled substances within a six-month period is five. This limit is established by federal regulations under the Controlled Substances Act, which delineates the scheduling of drugs based on their potential for abuse and dependency.

Schedule IV drugs are recognized as having a lower potential for abuse relative to drugs in the higher schedules, but they still require regulation to prevent misuse. Allowing up to five refills within a six-month timeframe enables patients to manage their medication needs while still attending regular check-ups or consultations with their healthcare providers to monitor their usage and any potential side effects.

Understanding this regulation is essential for pharmacy practice, as it ensures compliance with federal law while facilitating patient access to necessary medications.