Which of the following is NOT a restriction for optometrists prescribing medication?

Optometrists are granted specific privileges regarding prescribing medications, but these privileges come with certain restrictions based on statewide laws and regulations. Among the options provided, topical ocular medications are included in the scope of practice for optometrists and do not have restrictions like those associated with opioids, systemic medications, or specific drug classes.

Topical ocular medications are used frequently in the practice of optometry for the treatment of various eye conditions, such as glaucoma, infections, and allergies. Because these medications are applied directly to the eye, they generally fall within the optometrist's training and authority to prescribe without additional restrictions.

In contrast, other options involve oral antivirals for extended periods, oral steroids, and injectable medications, which tend to have more stringent regulations due to their potential side effects and the severity of conditions they are used to treat. For instance, prescribing oral antivirals for more than 10 days, systemic steroids, and IV/IM medications poses additional risks that warrant closer scrutiny and more stringent guidelines, which means optometrists face restrictions in these areas.

Therefore, the correct answer identifies topical ocular medications as not being subject to those same restrictions that apply to other categories of medications within an optometrist's prescribing authority.