What must be included in the prescription for a controlled substance apart from the patient's information?

In a prescription for a controlled substance, it is crucial to include directions for use alongside patient information to ensure safe and effective medication management. Directions for use provide specific instructions on how the medication should be taken, including dosage, frequency, and any special considerations. This information is essential for both the patient and the pharmacist, as it helps to prevent misuse or misunderstandings regarding the medication regimen.

Including detailed directions for use is not just a best practice but also a legal requirement for controlled substances, as it ensures that all parties involved understand the intended use of the medication. Thus, clear and comprehensive directions contribute to responsible prescribing and patient safety.

The other options listed, such as office hours of the physician, pharmacy contact, and patient prior prescriptions, are not mandated components of a controlled substance prescription. While having access to such information may be helpful in specific circumstances, it is the directions for use that hold paramount importance in the legal and practical context of dispensing controlled substances.