What action should a pharmacist take if a prescription appears to be forged?

If a pharmacist encounters a prescription that appears to be forged, the most appropriate action is to verify its authenticity with the prescribing practitioner and, if necessary, report the incident to law enforcement. This protocol helps ensure the safety of patients and maintains the integrity of the pharmaceutical practice. By reaching out to the prescriber, the pharmacist can confirm whether the prescription was indeed issued by the practitioner, which is crucial in preventing potential harm that could result from dispensing a forged prescription.

Additionally, engaging law enforcement may become necessary if fraud is confirmed, as it can help with the investigation and prevention of further illegal activities. This approach not only protects the pharmacist and the pharmacy from legal repercussions but also serves the greater good in maintaining public safety by addressing prescription drug misuse.

Other actions, such as filling the prescription, contacting the patient for clarification, or destroying the prescription, do not adequately address the potential legal and ethical implications of dispensing a forged prescription. Filling the prescription could facilitate drug abuse or illegal distribution, while destroying it without verifying its validity could leave the pharmacy open to questions about compliance and due diligence.