Can a pharmacy sell pseudoephedrine without supervision from a pharmacist or intern?

In New Jersey, the sale of pseudoephedrine is classified as a restricted category of over-the-counter medication due to its potential use in the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine. Therefore, this medication must always be dispensed under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist or a pharmacy intern working under the oversight of a pharmacist.

This requirement for supervision is in place to ensure that the sale is conducted in compliance with applicable federal and state laws, which mandate the maintenance of logs, identification checks, and other controls to prevent misuse. Supervision helps ensure that the necessary documentation is consistently completed and that appropriate patient counseling occurs.

By requiring a pharmacist's or intern's supervision for the sale of pseudoephedrine, the law aims to mitigate risks associated with the substance while still providing access for legitimate consumers. This framework is critical for maintaining regulatory compliance and protecting public health.