What must be demonstrated for a CII drug prescribed in an emergency?

For a Schedule II (CII) drug prescribed in an emergency situation, it is essential to demonstrate the immediate need for treatment. The law recognizes that certain situations may arise where a patient requires immediate access to a CII medication, and there may not be an opportunity to obtain a written prescription in advance. This requirement is designed to ensure patient safety and to facilitate urgent medical care while maintaining regulatory compliance.

When a prescriber determines that an emergency exists, they can call in a prescription for a CII drug without a written note, provided that they meet the conditions established by federal regulations. These conditions typically involve the prescriber assessing the patient's condition and concluding that the medication is necessary for immediate treatment.

The availability of a written prescription, presence of non-sterile preparation, and connection to extended care facilities are not conditions that determine the appropriateness of an emergency prescription. While a written prescription must typically follow in these situations, and particular settings may have their own regulations, the core requirement is the immediate need for the medication to treat a patient's urgent condition.