Medication dispense records show when you actually received medications from pharmacies or healthcare providers. This includes picking up prescriptions, getting medications during hospital stays, or having them delivered.

These records help track what medications you've actually received (not just what was prescribed), provide instructions for safe use, and create a complete history for all your healthcare providers.

Note: Only your healthcare providers and pharmacists can add or update these records to ensure accuracy.

 

What's in Your Dispense Records

Basic information:

  • Medication name - What you received
  • Amount dispensed - How much you got
  • Days supply - How long it should last
  • When prepared and given - Timing of dispensing
  • Where dispensed - Which pharmacy or location
  • Who dispensed it - Pharmacist or provider

Instructions and guidance:

  • How to take it - Detailed directions
  • When to take it - Timing and frequency
  • Special instructions - With food, before bed, etc.
  • Safety warnings - Important precautions

Substitutions (if any):

  • What was changed - Generic vs brand, different strength
  • Why it was changed - Cost, availability, insurance
  • Who approved it - Pharmacist or provider

 

Understanding Dispense Status

Status types:

  • Completed - You successfully received the medication
  • In-progress - Being prepared for you
  • On-hold - Temporarily delayed
  • Cancelled - Dispensing was cancelled

Common reasons for delays or cancellations:

  • Out of stock
  • Insurance issues or prior authorization needed
  • Prescription needs clarification
  • Patient not available for pickup

Types of dispenses:

  • First fill - First time getting this prescription
  • Refill - Getting more of the same prescription
  • Partial fill - Only part of the prescribed amount
  • Emergency fill - Temporary supply for urgent needs

 

How to Use Your Dispense Information

Track your medication supply:

  • See when you received medications and how much you have left
  • Plan ahead for refills based on days supply
  • Identify any gaps in your medication supply

Verify accuracy:

  • Check that you got the right medication and amount
  • Review any substitutions and understand why they were made
  • Confirm instructions match what your provider intended

Questions to ask your pharmacist:

  • "Is this the same as what my doctor prescribed?"
  • "Why was a substitution made?"
  • "How exactly should I take this?"
  • "When should I get my next refill?"
  • "What should I do if I miss a dose?"
  • "Are there any side effects to watch for?"

Remember: These records help you and your healthcare team ensure you're getting the right medications at the right time.