What must a pharmacist do when dispensing an interchangeable biological product?

When dispensing an interchangeable biological product, the pharmacist must document the product provided and notify the prescriber. This process is crucial for ensuring that both the patient and the prescriber are aware of the specific biological product that has been dispensed. This information provides visibility and accountability in a patient's medication regimen, as interchangeable biological products can vary in manufacturer and formulation.

Notifying the prescriber allows the healthcare team to be informed about the specific product used, which is essential for monitoring the patient's response to therapy and managing any potential side effects or interactions. Furthermore, documentation serves as a legal record of the product that was dispensed, ensuring compliance with regulations and facilitating continuity of care.

This requirement is part of the regulation to enhance patient safety and transparency in the use of biological products, which can have complex effects due to their nature. Keeping internal records alone does not meet the standards for communication and accountability expected in pharmacy practice. Providing only verbal notice is insufficient since it does not create a formal record or ensure that all necessary parties are informed.