What is true regarding the sale of codeine-containing Schedule V cough medicine without a prescription?

Only a pharmacist may dispense codeine-containing Schedule V cough medicine without a prescription due to regulations that govern the sale of controlled substances. Schedule V drugs, which include cough preparations with limited quantities of codeine, are considered to have a lower potential for abuse compared to other controlled substances but still require careful handling and oversight.

Pharmacy laws typically mandate that such medications be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist to ensure proper patient education, verification of the patient's needs, and compliance with legal requirements. This helps prevent misuse and ensures that the consumer understands the potential effects and appropriate use of the medication.

The other options do not accurately reflect the legal stipulations regarding the sale of codeine-containing cough medicine. For instance, selling it freely without pharmacist oversight could lead to misuse, and it cannot be freely advertised as it may encourage inappropriate use. Additionally, many regulations require that certain controlled substances be kept behind the counter to limit access to them, so not all staff members would be authorized to handle the sale directly.