What are Pharmaceutical Prescribing Rights?
Pharmaceutical prescribing involves the prescription of a pharmaceutical drug to treat various disease states, or to change the dose of an existing prescription. Pharmaceutical medications are commonly prescribed by your family medical doctor or medical specialist.
Are Naturopathic Doctors able to prescribe pharmaceutical drugs?
Since 2009, Naturopathic Doctors have had Prescriptive Authority within British Columbia. In order to achieve Prescriptive Authority, Naturopathic Doctors must take a rigorous course and examination process facilitated by Professors in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of British Columbia, Dr. James McCormack, B.Sc.(Pharm.), Pharm.D. and Dr. Adil Virani, B.Sc.(Pharm.), Pharm.D.
Naturopathic Doctors are able to prescribe from provincial Drug Schedules l, ll and lll in accordance with the BC Pharmacists, Pharmacy Operations and Drug Scheduling Act and the federal Controlled and Drug Substances Act and Regulation, and the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia (CNPBC) Prescribing Standards, Limits and Conditions.
Naturopathic Doctors are able to prescribe from provincial Drug Schedules l, ll and lll in accordance with the BC Pharmacists, Pharmacy Operations and Drug Scheduling Act and the federal Controlled and Drug Substances Act and Regulation, and the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia (CNPBC) Prescribing Standards, Limits and Conditions.
Why would ND’s want to prescribe pharmaceutical medications?
Pharmaceutical prescriptions can be a necessary intervention in many cases. At the Butterfly Naturopathic Clinic, our Naturopathic Doctors use pharmaceutical prescriptions as a last resort. We first strengthen and support your body's own natural ability to heal itself. Second, we provide natural therapies, such as nutritional supplements, botanical medicine, bodywork, acupuncture, and diet and lifestyle counselling to encourage healing. If these methods are unsuccessful, and a pharmaceutical medication is warranted, our patients have the choice to start a prescription medication.
Can I take natural products with pharmaceutical medications?
Having prescribing rights also allows Naturopathic Doctors to better manage your prescriptions with potential interactions with herbs & supplements. Being educated in Pharmaceutical medications, Supplements, & Herbal Remedies make Naturopathic Doctors the experts on ensuring that you are using your prescriptions safely and effectively,
