Drug Administration

Question 1

Can Pharmacists Administer Immunizations? Which Ones?

Answer 1

Pharmacists - Yes, Order & Administration:
* Public Health Emergency Use or Statewide Protocol
(IA: 6+ Months Influenza / COVID)
* Adults (18+ yrs) for Travel
(IA: CDC Pink Book)
* CDC Adult Vaccine Schedule
(IA: Also, RPh may order/administer final 2 doses of HPV vaccine ages 11+)
* Need Rx for Other Vaccines

Technicians may also administer vaccines in IA. Also in other states under PREP Act that ends December 31st, 2024. Some fighting to extend or make permanent in their state:
* PREP (Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness) Act
* CPhT w/ Vaccine Certification may in all 50 states can administer COVID-19 or Influenza Vaccines if 3+ yrs.

Question 2

Can Pharmacists Administer Medications? Which Ones?

Answer 2

Pharmacist (or delegated authorized pharmacy personnel) may administer by the prescriber any medication with a prescription to a patient.

In cases of serious complications, pharmacist shall notify prescriber who issues prescription within 24 hours and shall submit a report to FAERS (US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System).

Question 3

Is a CPA (Collaborative Practice Agreement) Required?

Answer 3

No. CPA Agreements just allow for specific drug treatment management after vaccines without an Rx every time.(ex: Tamiflu for Influenza)

Question 4

Facility Requirements for Drug Administration? (Private Space/Partitiion)

Answer 4

Pharmacists who administer vaccines under this protocol shall maintain a current copy of protocol at each workplace and a private area for administering vaccines with supplies and equipment listed in Appedix A of Immunization Statewide Protocol (VIS, Epinephrine, Dihenhydramine, BP Cuff, Syringe, Alcohol Pad, Bandage).

Question 5

Other Requirements?
Patient Age Limit?

Answer 5

Required Supplies & Equipment: Includes protocol, VIS for vaccines, epinephrine, diphenhydramine, blood pressure cuffs, syringes, alcohol pads, bandages (Immunization Statewide Protocol)

6 Months & Older:
* Immunization for Influenza / Other Emergency Immunizations

11 Years & Older:
* The final dose(s) for human papillomavirus (HPV)

18 Years & Older:
* Vaccine on ACIP-approved Adult Vaccination Schedule
* Recommended by CDC for international travel
* TDaP Booster (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Acceular Pertussis)
* Other Emergency Immunizaitons (Immunization Statewide Protocol)

Question 6

Laws/Protections for Emergencies (Anaphylaxis, Overdose)? Drugs Covered?

Answer 6

Not Specified.

(However, most companies allow pharmacies to provide Epi-Pens without a prescription for emergency use. Some OTC inhalers also exist.)