Florida · Ran out of medication

Ran out of your medication in Florida? Here are your options.

Missing a few doses of some medicines is minor; for others it matters quickly. Here is what Florida allows and where an online refill review fits.

Get emergency care now for chest pain, trouble breathing, severe headache, confusion, fainting, very high or very low blood sugar, or a severe allergic reaction. Call 911.

Short answer: Call your pharmacy first: Florida pharmacists may give a one-time emergency supply of up to 72 hours when your prescriber can't be reached, and up to 30 days of a chronic medication during a declared state of emergency. If your doctor is unavailable, a $39 telehealth refill review can continue an established, non-controlled medication, with the prescription sent to your Florida pharmacy.

1. Call your pharmacy first

If your pharmacist can't reach your prescriber for a refill authorization, Florida law allows the pharmacist to dispense a one-time emergency supply of up to 72 hours of the prescribed medication, using professional judgment. There is a separate provision for emergency insulin refills. Not every medication or situation qualifies, and it's the pharmacist's decision. (Fla. Stat. §465.0275)

2. During a hurricane or declared state of emergency

When the Governor declares a state of emergency, pharmacists in the affected counties may dispense up to a 30-day supply of medication needed for a chronic condition, except Schedule II drugs, when interrupting therapy could cause harm. Before hurricane season, it's worth keeping at least a two-week supply and a photo of every pharmacy label.

3. Contact your regular prescriber

If your doctor is reachable, they are usually the fastest route, because they know your history.

4. Request a $39 telehealth refill review

If your prescriber is unavailable, you recently moved, or you're visiting Florida, a Florida-registered telehealth physician can review a request to continue an established, non-controlled medication. If appropriate, the prescription goes to the Florida pharmacy you choose.

Check eligibility — $39 review

Don't change your medicine on your own. Don't double up doses when you restart, and don't stop medicines such as beta-blockers or clonidine abruptly without advice. Ask your pharmacist or clinician.

What speeds things up

A photo of the bottle or label, showing the drug, dose and prescriber
When you took your last dose
Recent home readings (blood pressure, glucose) if you have them
The exact Florida pharmacy you want, ideally one that's open now

Not sure your medicine qualifies? Check the medication list or text 469-951-0477.