South Carolinians who are prescribed Schedule III - V medications may receive a one-time early refill due to the winter storm impacting the state and the possibility of extended power outages.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) says the authorization covers valid refills that are due through Friday, Jan. 30.
DPH interim director Dr. Edward Simmer says the measure comes because of potential interruptions in service and to reduce possible danger to individuals who are travelling following the storm.
Dispensers must pull all original controlled prescriptions and document the early refill information in detail, including, but not limited to, date, time, reason for early refill, and pharmacist signature.
Authority for this action is pursuant to S.C. Code Section 25-1-440 and Executive Order No. 2026-02, issued Jan. 21, 2026.