Ask the Board of Nursing: Follow up regarding NPs prescribing compounded meds

In regard to the question and answer below: I am unable to find any laws/rules saying APRNs are unable to prescribe compounded medication. This would also remove the ability for APRNs to compound certain topicals. Can you please assist us with finding this law/rule? I have spoke with pharmacists and they are all unaware of this being a rule with pharmacy boards also. Can compounded weight loss medications still be prescribed if a patient needs alternate dosing? The name brand medications, even through direct to consumer, just aren't affordable for patients. These medications are potentially life saving and certainly life altering. There must be a medically necessary reason for the compounded medication and the prescription must come from a physician. Unfortunately, cost is not a reason.

Prescribing compounded medications is not specifically addressed in the Nurse Practice Act. They are regulated federally and under the Pharmacy Board Rules/Regulations for pharmacists. USP 797 is the federal laws. 07-02-0001 is the rule from the pharmacy board that modifications must come from a physician.