A Physician Is Approached by a Friend Who Requests a Prescription

question 151

Multiple Choice

A physician is approached by a friend who requests a prescription for antidepressant medication.  The physician has been friends with this individual since college and is aware that she has been treated for depression in the past.  The friend explains that she is only "a little depressed" due to work stress and relationship issues and would like to resume sertraline, which she has taken previously.  She has a physician but wants to avoid seeing the provider due to difficulty getting an appointment and her own busy schedule.  Which of the following is the most appropriate response?

• A)"I can write a prescription so that you have enough medication until you're able to get an appointment with your doctor."
• B)"I wish I could help you, but your psychiatric history is too complex for me to feel comfortable prescribing medication for you."
• C)"Let's schedule a time for you to come in for a full evaluation so that I can make sure sertraline is the most appropriate option."
• D)"Unfortunately, I'm unable to prescribe medication for you since our relationship prevents me from providing objective treatment."
• E)"Your doctor should be able to prescribe a refill without an appointment since you've taken this medication before."