What is the maximum number of refills permitted for a Schedule IV drug in six months?

The maximum number of refills allowed for a Schedule IV controlled substance within a six-month period is five. This regulation is established by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and is applicable to the management of medications that have a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule I, II, and III drugs.

According to federal law, a prescription for a Schedule IV drug can be refilled up to five times, or within six months from the date it was issued, whichever comes first. This helps ensure that patients have access to their medications while still maintaining oversight and control over the dispensing of potentially habit-forming medications.

This framework is intended to strike a balance between patient care and the need to prevent misuse or abuse of these substances. The other options provided do not align with this regulation; therefore, option five represents the correct answer as it accurately reflects the legal limits for refills on Schedule IV substances.