There are a number of reasons why you might need someone else to pick up your prescription for you. A busy schedule, a lack of transportation, an illness or other conflicts can all prevent you from getting your medication on time.

Luckily, it’s possible to have a friend or relative get your medication from a pharmacy if you're unable to do so yourself. Here’s what you need to know about having someone else pick up a prescription for you!

Can someone else pick up your prescription for you?

Yes, it’s generally fine to have a friend or family member pick up a prescription for you. However, prescription pick-up policies can vary by pharmacy and by state, so it’s best to call the pharmacy ahead of time for specifics.

For example, some states require that you must be 18+ to pick up a prescription, while others allow minors to pick up prescriptions. Popular chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid each have their own pharmacy pick-up rules to make sure that your health information stays confidential.

What about picking up a controlled substance prescription?

In most situations, you can have a friend or family member pick up a prescription for a controlled substance for you. Examples of controlled substances include opioids, amphetamines, and other Schedule II drugs.

However, the process for picking up a controlled substance is more regulated than it is for non-controlled medications (like birth control or blood pressure meds). Controlled medications are more closely monitored by the government due to their potential for abuse or risk.

Because of this, pharmacies require additional steps when picking up these prescriptions. You will likely need to provide a valid ID, such as a driver’s license. This ID may be scanned through a system that helps to keep track of prescription drugs to make sure they’re not being abused or illegally distributed.

How to pick up a prescription for someone else

Picking up a filled prescription for a friend or family member? Here are a few pointers to make the process easier:

Most pharmacies have an app or a notification system that sends an alert when a prescription is ready. If you’re picking up a prescription for a friend or loved one, have them verify that the prescription has been filled. You can also confirm this by calling the pharmacy!

Prescription pick-up policies can vary depending on the pharmacy and the state that it’s located in. Keep in mind that they may ask for information like the patient’s name, date of birth, address, or phone number. If you’re not sure what’s required for prescription pick-up, call the pharmacy ahead of time! They can fill you in on what you need to bring.

Once you’re at the pharmacy, explain to the pharmacist that you’re there to pick up a prescription for someone else. The pharmacist may ask you for information about the patient, like their name, date of birth, address or phone number. You may need to present a form of ID, like a driver’s license or credit card, to the pharmacist.

Some pharmacies also require a signature from the person picking up the prescription. This way, the pharmacy has proof that the prescription was picked up.

Can a pharmacy refuse to allow someone else to pick up my prescription?

Yes. It’s up to the pharmacist to decide if someone else can pick up your prescription for you. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), pharmacists can use their “professional judgment and experience” to determine what’s in the patient’s best interest.

If the pharmacy staff is uncomfortable or unsure about the situation (especially if the prescription involves controlled substances or if the pick-up seems irregular), they may decide not to release the medication.

If this happens, try not to get frustrated. These guidelines and policies are in place because of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), a law that helps protect your medical records and other health information and keep them private. Instead, ask if the pharmacist needs any additional information from you in order to obtain the prescription.

How Sesame can help

Need to talk with a provider about a prescription or prescription refill? You can shop for same-day, affordable online doctor appointments on Sesame. If appropriate, your provider can prescribe medication during your visit. Afterwards, your prescription will be sent to a pharmacy of your choice for fast, convenient pick-up.

Sources

• (2014). Controlled Substance Integrity—Documentation From Drop-Off to Pickup. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
  
• (2024). Lists of: Scheduling Actions, Controlled Substances, Regulated Chemicals. U.S. Department of Justice.
  
• HIPAA Compliance for Pharmacies. The HIPAA Journal.
  
• Office for Civil Rights. (2002). Can a patient have a friend or family member pick up a prescription for her?. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
  

Sesame content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have a medical concern, it is critical to seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions. If you are facing a medical emergency, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room immediately.

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