West Virginia MPJE (Pharmacy Jurisprudence) Practice Exam

What is the BUD of a drug product that does not have an expiration date?

1. This drug can be dispensed as usual

2. This drug should be returned to the manufacturer

3. This drug is misbranded, may be considered expired, and should not be dispensed

4. This drug can be dispensed with a pharmacist's approval

The correct answer is: This drug can be dispensed as usual

The best course of action when dealing with a drug product that does not have an expiration date is to ensure it is safe and appropriate for dispensing. The correct answer reflects that if the drug is still in its original packaging, properly stored, and showing no signs of deterioration, it can generally be dispensed as usual. In practical terms, some medications may not have an official expiration date due to various factors such as being compounded, or being in a packaging format that does not require it. Regulations may allow for the dispensing of such drugs, given that they have been assessed by a licensed pharmacist for potential stability and safety. It's also important to ensure that state regulations and pharmacy policies are adhered to in making dispensing decisions. Additionally, while the absence of an expiration date raises considerations about the drug's safety and efficacy over time, it does not automatically lead to it being classified as misbranded or expired without further evaluation. This context helps clarify why the selected answer is suitable, whereas the alternatives may involve returning the product, misbranding concerns, or requiring additional oversight when dispensing.