What information can a pharmacist NEVER change on a prescription?

The practitioner's signature is a critical component of a prescription as it serves as the healthcare provider's authorization for the medication to be dispensed. This signature reflects the practitioner’s professional judgment and consent for treatment, and therefore, it must remain unchanged to ensure the validity and legality of the prescription. Altering the signature could lead to potential fraud and void the prescription, which is why it is strictly protected.

In contrast, other parts of a prescription, such as a patient's address or directions for use, can sometimes be amended under certain circumstances, provided that the changes are appropriately documented and authorized. Similarly, while alterations to a DEA number are also not permissible in a fraudulent context, information related to the address or dosage may be updated to reflect the most accurate patient information or therapy adjustments. Thus, the practitioner's signature stands out as the element that cannot be modified under any circumstances.