How long are TPP prescriptions valid from the time they are written?
Prescriptions issued on a Triplicate Prescription Program (TPP) form are only valid for 72 hours.
Day one is considered the date the prescription is written. The prescription cannot be filled after midnight of the third day. At their discretion, dispensers may call the prescriber to obtain approval to use an expired prescription written on a TPP form. Such authorization should be documented on both copies.
Pharmacists should also document their assessment and rationale for these types of situations. The validity period is not meant to create barriers to patient care.
For more information, visit the TPP page on the ACP website, which includes the TPP program guide.
