AR HB1555

Amends Arkansas Code § 17-92-101(17) to modify the definition of "prescription" under the Arkansas Pharmacy Act to allow pharmacists to substitute therapeutically equivalent drugs at lower cost with prescriber authorization.

Requires pharmacists to verbally discuss any suggested drug substitution with the patient before dispensing and inform patients of their right to refuse the substitution.

Mandates that pharmacist-patient discussions include notification that the substitute drug does not contain the identical active ingredient as the prescribed drug and all differences in dosage and frequency between the drugs.

Requires pharmacists to notify prescribers in writing or by electronic communication within 24 hours after dispensing a substituted drug to the patient.

Exempts antipsychotic medications and specific acts of drug therapy management or disease state management delegated to pharmacists under written physician-approved protocols from the substitution authorization requirements.