What must physicians do when issuing a prescription for controlled substances?

When physicians issue a prescription for controlled substances, they are required to ensure that the prescription is issued for a legitimate medical purpose. This is essential because controlled substances have a high potential for abuse and dependence, and the law mandates that any prescription must be part of a legitimate physician-patient relationship. The physician must evaluate the patient's medical condition and determine that the controlled substance is appropriate for treatment.

This requirement is a critical aspect of preventing misuse and diversion of controlled substances. By adhering to this standard, physicians protect patient safety and conform to legal regulations, which are designed to promote responsible prescribing practices. A prescription that fails to meet this requirement can lead to legal consequences for the prescriber and may endanger the patient's health.

The other options provided do not align with the legal and ethical responsibilities of physicians regarding controlled substance prescriptions. For example, prescribing only generic medications may not always be suitable for every patient, while writing prescriptions in code or pre-signing them undermines the legitimacy of the prescription process and poses a risk for abuse. Prescribers must follow established guidelines to ensure safety and accountability in their practice.