A patient has a prescription for a controlled substance that has expired. What is the pharmacist's next step?

In the case of an expired prescription for a controlled substance, the pharmacist's next appropriate step is to advise the patient to obtain a new prescription. Controlled substances are closely regulated, and one of the regulations is that prescriptions must be valid and current. Once a prescription has expired, it can no longer be filled or refilled, even if the patient still requires the medication.

Advising the patient to get a new prescription from their healthcare provider ensures that they continue their treatment in compliance with regulations. It also allows the prescriber to evaluate the patient's condition and determine if the medication is still appropriate or if adjustments are necessary. This step not only adheres to legal and safety guidelines but also supports the continuity of care for the patient.

Other options, such as trying to refill a partial amount or notifying the patient that controlled substances cannot be refilled, do not align with regulatory practices, as refilling an expired prescription is not permissible. Additionally, while contacting the physician for a renewal could have been considered, it is typically more effective and straightforward to direct the patient to seek a new prescription directly, since the prescriber has the authority to issue a new prescription only based on an evaluation of the patient's current health status.