Who receives an exception to controlled substances labeling requirements?

The correct answer is the option referring to institutionalized patients with short supply. This exception is granted due to the unique circumstances surrounding patients in institutional settings, such as hospitals or nursing homes. In these environments, patients may require specific medication regimens that do not necessitate the standard labeling requirements applicable to outpatients.

When medications are dispensed in these institutions, they often operate under a different set of regulations that prioritize patient care and safety over conventional labeling protocols. For instance, if a patient is only expected to receive a short duration of medication, such as a few doses or a short supply while being treated, the traditional labeling requirements can be adjusted accordingly to facilitate immediate and efficient care without compromising patient safety.

In contrast, the other options involve scenarios that do not qualify for such exceptions. For instance, prison inmates receiving controlled substances typically require stringent adherence to labeling requirements for safety and security reasons. Patients receiving 30-day supplies or those on maintenance medications also do not fall under the exception, as their medications are generally dispensed for outpatient use where clear labeling is essential for managing their treatment effectively. Therefore, institutionalized patients with short supply are the only group in this context that may receive exceptions to controlled substances labeling requirements.