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About Barbara Judge
Expertise
Outpatient pharmacy and general health. I have recently completed a Pharmceutical Care Certificate Program offered by Purdue University (Spring 1999 completion). I have personal experience dealing with terminally ill persons and their needs, as well as their families` needs. I graduated in 1984 from Pharmacy School and have been a Licensed Pharmacist since then. I have 18 years retail pharmacy experience. Prior to my pharmacy training I have 3 years hospital experience as a Nurse`s Aide.

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Pharmacy - when to submit Rx

Expert: Barbara Judge - 10/31/2009

Question
My Dr. just gave me a prescription to fill, but also gave me two months of samples for that medication (Lipitor). I was going to use up the samples first and submit the Rx to the pharmacy then, or should I submit it now or does it not matter? Thanks

Answer
This actually depends on the laws of your state. It should not matter if you use up the samples before submitting the prescription as long as you do not hold the prescription beyond the "life" of the prescription. In Indiana, where I practice, that is 1 year from the date the prescription by the doctor. Other states may have other laws which govern this. Federal law is 2 years from the date first filled and does not address the date written. State laws may be anything less than this but not be longer than Federal law. The best thing you can do is ask your local pharmacy.

Thanks

Barb Judge

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