Maryland § 12-505

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 12-505, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12-505.

    (a)    Except for a drug or device dispensed to an inpatient in a hospital or related institution, each container of a drug or device dispensed shall be labeled in accordance with this section.

    (b)    In addition to any other information required by law, the label shall include:

        (1)    The date the prescription is filled; and

        (2)    Unless otherwise required by the prescriber:

            (i)    For drugs or devices dispensed in a container other than the manufacturer’s original packaging, an expiration date of the drugs or devices which shall be the lesser of:

                1.    1 year from the date of dispensing;

                2.    The month and year when the drugs or devices expire;

                3.    The appropriate expiration date for repackaged drugs or devices; or

                4.    A shorter period as determined by the pharmacist;

            (ii)    For drugs or devices dispensed in the manufacturer’s original packaging, an expiration date of the drugs or devices which shall be:

                1.    The expiration date set by the manufacturer; or

                2.    A shorter period as determined by the pharmacist;

            (iii)    Any appropriate special handling instructions regarding proper storage of the drugs or devices; and

            (iv)    Subject to the provisions of subsection (c) of this section, the name and strength of the drugs or devices.

    (c)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the label shall indicate the same name for the drug or device as that used by the authorized prescriber.

        (2)    If, under § 12–504 of this subtitle, the pharmacist substitutes a drug or device product for that named by the authorized prescriber, the label shall indicate both the name of the drug or device product and the name of the manufacturer or distributor of the drug or device dispensed.

    (d)    (1)    Except as provided in this subsection, if an authorized prescriber dispenses a drug or device, the prescriber shall label each container of the drug or device.

        (2)    In addition to any other information required by law, the authorized prescriber shall include on the label:

            (i)    The name and strength of the drug or device;

            (ii)    The date the prescription is dispensed;

            (iii)    An expiration date of the drug or device which shall be the lesser of:

                1.    1 year from the date of dispensing;

                2.    The month and year when the drug or device expires; or

                3.    A shorter period as determined by the authorized prescriber; and

            (iv)    Any appropriate special handling instructions regarding proper storage of the drug or device.

        (3)    The labeling requirements of this subsection do not apply if the authorized prescriber dispenses the drug or device:

            (i)    To an inpatient in a hospital or related institution;

            (ii)    In an emergency situation; or

            (iii)    As a sample drug or device dispensed in the regular course of the authorized prescriber’s practice.

    (e)    So long as any of the original contents remain in the container, a person may not alter, deface, or remove any label required by this section.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 12-505

What does Maryland Code § 12-505 cover?

Section 12-505 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maryland § 12-505?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 12-505" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maryland law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

How does Maryland § 12-505 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.