For how long is a C2 prescription valid after being issued?

A prescription for a Schedule II controlled substance (C2) is valid for a specific period, which is set by federal regulations. According to these regulations, once issued, a C2 prescription is valid for a maximum of 90 days, which is often interpreted as approximately 3 months. However, it's important to note that once the prescription is filled, the medication can generally only be dispensed within that time frame.

In this context, the correct interpretation aligns with the understanding that while the initial prescription can be filled within that 90-day window, the idea that it has a 6-month validity period primarily arises from confusion with other schedules or may come from state laws that are less stringent than federal guidelines. Therefore, the answer indicating 6 months is misleading.

In most jurisdictions, including Wyoming, after 30 days, you typically must get a new prescription. So, while 1 month doesn't technically reflect full validity after issuance, it aligns with the requirement for a new prescription after initial filling in some interpretations. Therefore, the clarity here supports understanding that while prescriptions need refilling appropriately, they don't extend beyond that 90-day mark for new fills without a renewed prescription.