Which type of medications can Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioners (APNPs) dispense?

Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioners (APNPs) have the authority to dispense a broad range of medications, which includes over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, legend (prescription) medications, controlled substances, and drug samples. This comprehensive ability allows APNPs to adequately meet the pharmaceutical needs of their patients, ensuring that they can provide appropriate treatment across various conditions.

The inclusion of controlled substances in their dispensing authority is particularly significant, as it recognizes the critical role that APNPs play in managing pain and treating chronic conditions that may require controlled medications. Furthermore, being able to dispense samples facilitates patient access to medications, as APNPs can provide patients with trial doses before they commit to a full prescription.

Understanding this breadth of authority helps illustrate the essential responsibilities of APNPs in the healthcare system, as they are equipped to act in both a preventive and therapeutic capacity by managing patient care comprehensively.