This bill amends current law to allow pharmacists to administer certain long-acting injectable drugs, provided they have the appropriate education and qualifications as determined by the New Jersey State Board of Pharmacy. Specifically, the bill states that a pharmacist may administer these drugs only pursuant to a prescription from an authorized prescriber. The long-acting injectable drugs are defined as medications approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration that are used to treat or manage symptoms of psychiatric conditions or disorders, with effects lasting up to 24 weeks from a single dose.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that ensure the administration of these injectable drugs is in accordance with rules jointly established by the New Jersey State Board of Pharmacy and the State Board of Medical Examiners. This legislative change aims to expand the role of pharmacists in patient care, particularly in the management of psychiatric conditions, thereby improving access to necessary treatments. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:14-63