What must a pharmacist do after a therapeutic substitution is made?

The correct action a pharmacist must take after a therapeutic substitution is to notify the prescriber within 5 days. This requirement is rooted in the importance of communication and continuity of care between healthcare providers. When a pharmacist makes a therapeutic substitution, which is the replacement of a prescribed medication with a chemically different medication that is expected to have the same therapeutic effect, it is crucial that the prescriber is informed promptly. This allows the prescriber to stay updated on the patient's medication regimen, ensuring that any necessary adjustments to treatment plans or monitoring can be made.

Notifying the prescriber within this timeframe supports collaborative healthcare practices, minimizes the risk of any potential adverse effects from the substitution, and helps maintain comprehensive records for the patient's care. This requirement is often part of state regulations and professional standards that pharmacists must adhere to, highlighting the need for effective communication in healthcare settings.