What does "dispensing" a medication involve?

Dispensing a medication primarily involves the preparation and issuing of a medication to a patient based on a prescription. This process requires pharmacists to accurately interpret prescriptions, prepare medications (which may include counting, measuring, and sometimes compounding), and then provide the final product to the patient while ensuring that all legal and safety standards are met.

This key aspect of dispensing also includes providing essential information to the patient about the medication, including dosage instructions, potential side effects, and any necessary counseling regarding interactions with other medications. The act of dispensing ensures that the patient receives the correct medication as prescribed and is informed about how to use it safely and effectively.

In contrast, creating a new formulation for clinical trials is a distinct process that does not fall under the scope of dispensing as it deals with research and development rather than patient-oriented medication supply. Conducting a comprehensive review of drug interactions typically occurs during the patient assessment or consultation process but is separate from the act of dispensing itself. Providing drug information solely to healthcare providers does not encompass the full scope of dispensing, which must also include direct patient interaction and education. Hence, the definition of dispensing is best captured by the preparation and issuance of medication based on a prescription.