§ 21-31.1-7. Packaging, prescriptions, labels, and records. (a) Packaging. A veterinary drug retailer shall deliver veterinary drugs to a client or client's agent only in the original manufacturer's package.

(b)(1) Prescriptions. A prescription is required for the dispensing of a prescription veterinary drug to any client; except that a prescription is not required for a veterinarian to dispense a veterinary drug directly to his or her client. A prescription may be refilled in accord with the veterinarian's instructions for up to three months. A prescription is not required for wholesale transactions between distributors, provided that the person ordering prescription veterinary drugs shall furnish a permit number, a pharmacy license number, or veterinarian license number, and this number shall be recorded on the sales invoice for the transaction.

(2) A veterinarian may issue a prescription in writing by oral communication to the dispenser, by computer connection, or other means. When the prescription is not in writing, the dispenser shall reduce the veterinarian's prescription to writing and include this record in the prescription files.

(3) The prescription must include: the name, address, and if written, the signature of the prescriber; the name and address of the patient/client; species for which prescribed; the name, strength and quantity of the drug; the date of issue; directions for use, withdrawal time, and cautionary statements.

(c) Prescription files. Dispensers shall maintain on file all prescriptions filled, and shall assign and record on the prescription a consecutive prescription number. The original date of filling of the prescription, the date of any refilling of the prescription and the initials of the person(s) dispensing the drug shall be recorded on either the face or the back of the prescription.

History of Section. (P.L. 1988, ch. 172, § 1.)