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HomeBusiness and Professions CodeDiv. 2Ch. 9Art. 2§ 4022 Prescription-Only Drugs And Devices

§ 4022 Prescription-Only Drugs And Devices

Business and Professions Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 4022 Prescription-Only Drugs And Devices

Key Takeaways

  • •Some drugs and tools are too dangerous to use without a doctor's okay.
  • •If a drug or tool has a warning like 'Rx only' or 'Caution: federal law prohibits dispensing without prescription,' it's dangerous and you need a doctor's note to get it.
  • •Even if a drug or tool doesn't have a warning, it might still be dangerous and need a doctor's note if the law says so.

Example

You have a bad headache and want to take some strong painkillers.

You can't just buy these painkillers at the store because they have a warning that says 'Rx only.' This means they are dangerous drugs and you need a doctor to write a prescription for you.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 4022 Prescription-Only Drugs And Devices

“Dangerous drug” or “dangerous device” means any drug or device unsafe for self-use in humans or animals, and includes the following: (a) Any drug that bears the legend: “Caution: federal law prohibits dispensing without prescription,” “Rx only,” or words of similar import. (b) Any device that bears the statement: “Caution: federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a ____,” “Rx only,” or words of similar import, the blank to be filled in with the designation of the practitioner licensed to use or order use of the device. (c) Any other drug or device that by federal or state law can be lawfully dispensed only on prescription or furnished pursuant to Section 4006. (Amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 250, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2004.)

Last verified: January 22, 2026

Key Terms

prescriptiondangerous drugdangerous devicerx onlylicenseportstatementdesignation

Related Statutes

  • § 4021.5 Correctional Pharmacy Medication Rules
  • § 4024 Prescription Drug Dispensing Rules
  • § 4040 Prescription Order Requirements
  • § 4041 Veterinary Drug Retailer Licensing
  • § 4044.3 Remote Pharmacy Dispensing Rules

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Business and Professions Code. Section 4022.
View Official Source