Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam

Which is a requirement of the iPledge program when dispensing isotretinoin (Accutane)?

1. The prescription must be sent to the pharmacy electronically

2. Female patients must be using at least one contraceptive method

3. The quantity dispensed must not exceed a 30-day supply

4. The prescription must be dispensed within 24-hours of receipt

The correct answer is: The quantity dispensed must not exceed a 30-day supply

In the context of the iPledge program, which was established to minimize the risk of fetal exposure to isotretinoin, it is essential that certain protocols are strictly followed when dispensing this medication. One of these key requirements is that the quantity of isotretinoin dispensed must not exceed a 30-day supply. This limit helps ensure that healthcare providers closely monitor patients for any potential side effects and ensure adherence to the program's safety measures. Dispensing isotretinoin in limited quantities also allows for consistent follow-up appointments where necessary lab tests and pregnancy tests can be performed, ensuring that female patients are not pregnant before receiving further prescriptions. This approach is vital, as isotretinoin is teratogenic and can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. While there are various protocols associated with the iPledge program, maintaining a maximum 30-day supply is a crucial step in the overall risk management strategy implemented to protect patients.