In order to purchase Cheratussin-AC (C-V) without a prescription, which requirement must the patient meet?

To purchase Cheratussin-AC, which is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance, federal and state regulations dictate that certain requirements must be met. Among these, one key stipulation is that the individual must be at least 18 years of age. This age requirement reflects the need for legal accountability and responsibility in purchasing controlled substances, as it helps to ensure that the buyer understands the implications of obtaining and using medications that contain codeine.

Meeting this age criterion ensures that only adults can acquire medications with potential for abuse, thereby reducing the risk of misuse. While there are other measures that can support age verification, such as showing a form of identification, the fundamental requirement in this context is the age of the individual wishing to purchase the product.

In contrast, other options such as providing a birth certificate or a social security card are not universally mandated for the purchase of medications like Cheratussin-AC, even though identification may be requested. Therefore, the correct answer relates specifically to the age requirement established for purchasing this controlled substance without a prescription.