C-III–V Rx transfer for refill (one-time floor)

Claim

Under 21 CFR 1306.25(a), original prescription information for a Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substance may be transferred between pharmacies for refill dispensing on a one-time basis only — except pharmacies that electronically share a real-time online database may transfer up to the maximum refills permitted by law and the prescriber’s authorization. Transfers must be pharmacist-to-pharmacist and meet the record rules in §1306.25(b); state law may still prohibit the transfer.

Plain

Federal floor: C-III–V refill transfers are one-time unless the pharmacies share a real-time online database. Must be pharmacist-to-pharmacist. Always check state board.

Citations

1. 21 CFR 1306.25 (1306.25(a)) — source
   

   The transfer of original prescription information for a controlled substance listed in Schedule III, IV, or V for the purpose of refill dispensing is permissible between pharmacies on a one-time basis only. However, pharmacies electronically sharing a real-time, online database may transfer up to the maximum refills permitted by law and the prescriber's authorization.

   retrieved 2026-09-08