If a podiatrist prescribes Zolpidem, what should a pharmacist do?

In this scenario, the correct course of action for a pharmacist is to not fill the prescription for Zolpidem prescribed by a podiatrist. The rationale behind this decision is rooted in the scope of practice regulations that govern medical providers. Podiatrists are specialists primarily focused on the treatment of foot and ankle disorders. While they can prescribe medications related to their specialty, Zolpidem is a medication that is generally indicated for the treatment of sleep disorders and is not within the typical purview of a podiatrist’s practice.

Consequently, if a podiatrist prescribes Zolpidem, it is important for the pharmacist to ensure that the medication falls within the prescriber’s scope of practice. Fulfilling the prescription without confirming appropriateness could lead to potential legal or ethical violations, as well as patient safety concerns. Therefore, withholding the medication until clarification can be obtained aligns with the pharmacist's responsibility to verify that the prescribed medication is suitable based on the prescriber’s credentials and expertise.