Which of the following is NOT required on a controlled substance dispensing label?

The requirement for information included on a controlled substance dispensing label is governed by both state and federal regulations. Each element on the label serves a specific purpose in ensuring safe and effective medication use.

While the date the prescription is issued is important in the context of prescription validity and refill considerations, it is not mandated to be printed on the dispensing label. Instead, the law requires other critical elements on the label to ensure the patient has sufficient information about their medication.

The name and address of the pharmacy are necessary for identifying the source of the medication, which is vital for both the patient and regulatory purposes. The initial of the dispensing pharmacist serves as a verification that a licensed professional has reviewed and dispensed the medication, enhancing accountability in the pharmacy setting. Directions for use are crucial to ensure that patients understand how to take their medications correctly, promoting adherence and safety.

Thus, the absence of a requirement for the date the prescription was issued on the labeling distinguishes it from the other essential pieces of information, making it the correct answer to which is NOT required on a controlled substance dispensing label.