What should a pharmacist do if they suspect a prescription for a controlled substance is fraudulent?

When a pharmacist suspects that a prescription for a controlled substance is fraudulent, reporting to the appropriate authorities is the most responsible course of action. This ensures that potentially harmful or illegal activities are addressed in a proper and timely manner.

Pharmacists have a professional and legal duty to uphold the integrity of the dispensing process, especially when it comes to controlled substances, which are often subject to misuse or abuse. By reporting the suspicion, the pharmacist contributes to the overall safety of the community and allows law enforcement or regulatory bodies to investigate the situation further.

Filling the prescription to confirm its validity would not only be inappropriate but could also facilitate illegal activity. Ignoring the situation or proceeding with other transactions is neglectful and could have severe consequences for both the pharmacist and the patient population. Contacting the patient for verification could be risky; it might alert someone engaged in fraudulent activities, potentially leading to safety concerns. Thus, the most prudent and ethical action is to report the matter to the relevant authorities for investigation.