What type of prescription must be written on a special form as required by federal law?

Schedule II prescriptions must be written on a special form as required by federal law due to their high potential for abuse and dependency. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulates the prescribing of these substances closely, hence the need for a specific form to track and control them. This special form helps prevent misuse and ensures that these powerful medications are distributed safely and responsibly.

In contrast, electronic prescriptions can be used for various medications as long as they adhere to specific regulations but do not require a special paper form. Schedule III prescriptions, while also controlled substances, do not have the same strict form requirements and can be prescribed using regular prescription pads or electronically. Over-the-counter prescriptions, on the other hand, do not require a prescription at all, as they are available without a healthcare provider’s authorization. Thus, the unique requirements for Schedule II prescriptions underscore the importance of monitoring their use within the healthcare system.