Posted by Mark H. on March 29, 2005, at 14:35:59
In reply to I Wouldn't Return Them, posted by med_empowered on March 29, 2005, at 14:14:43
It's my understanding that in the United States, at least, once you walk away from the counter, meds are not returnable for any reason. I think the logic is that they could have been tampered with or contaminated (as unlikely as that would be).
However, after picking up three prescriptions at a local pharmacy chain a few years ago, I went home and was about to take my pills right away when I noticed that two of the prescriptions were for different medicines and another person. In that case, the pharmacy gladly (and sheepishly) took them back and gave them to the woman who was still waiting for them after sitting there for almost an hour.
I changed pharmacies after that.
Physicians also cannot redistribute medications, although it is done informally to accommodate patients who need but cannot pay for the more expensive meds. It's a shame to let them go to waste, in my opinion, when they can be put to appropriate and productive use.
Best wishes,
Mark H.
poster:Mark H.
thread:477067
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050326/msgs/477260.html