What must a pharmacist do if they suspect a prescription is fraudulent?

When a pharmacist suspects that a prescription is fraudulent, it is critical to uphold the integrity of the pharmacy practice and patient safety. Contacting the prescriber and refusing to fill the prescription allows the pharmacist to verify the legitimacy of the prescription before any medication is dispensed. This action is essential as it helps prevent potential harm to patients who may receive unnecessary or dangerous medication as a result of a fraudulent prescription.

By discussing the issue directly with the prescriber, the pharmacist can gather more information, confirm if the prescription was indeed intended for that patient, and take appropriate steps based on that conversation. This approach aligns with ethical and legal standards in the practice of pharmacy, which prioritize patient safety and the validity of prescriptions.

While notifying the patient about the situation may be part of the pharmacist's approach, the primary responsibility is to ensure that the prescription is legitimate, which is why contacting the prescriber is the most appropriate course of action. Moreover, reporting to the local police could be a necessary step after confirming fraud, but it does not address the immediate obligation of the pharmacist to verify the legitimacy of the prescription before proceeding. Filling the prescription anyway compromises patient safety and could have serious consequences.