What is the definition of dispensing in pharmacy practice?

Dispensing in pharmacy practice refers specifically to the act of delivering medication to the ultimate user, which includes patients receiving their medications for personal use outside of a healthcare facility. This definition encompasses not only the physical transfer of medication but also implies that the pharmacy has taken steps to ensure that the medication is suitable for the patient's needs.

This process involves various responsibilities such as verifying the prescription, selecting the appropriate medication, and providing the necessary information to the patient about their medication. By distinguishing dispensing from mere storage or delivery to a provider, it underscores the role of the pharmacist in patient care and safety.

Other options, such as filling a prescription for storage or giving medications to the provider, do not adequately capture the essence of dispensing, as they do not involve directly giving the medication to the patient. Providing counseling on medication, while crucial to pharmacy practice, is separate from the definition of dispensing itself, which focuses exclusively on the delivery aspect of medication distribution to patients.