Skip to main content
Welcome to the Office of the Professions’ newly redesigned website. Portions of this site may still be under development, so if you experience any issues or have any questions please submit a Website Feedback Form.
  • NYSED Homepage
  • Disclaimer
  • Contact Us
  • NYSED Employment
  • Board Members Only
Icon for the answer

Pharmacy refers to the preparation and dispensing of drugs as well as the counseling of patients in the proper use of these drugs.

Icon for the answer

New York pharmacists must store medications under controlled environments. This includes protection from heat, light, and tampering.

Many pharmacists use systems to ensure that....

  • each prescription is filled accurately and safely
  • the dispensed drugs do not interact poorly with other drugs, foods, or dietary supplements
  • each individual is screened for known allergies to medications
Icon for the answer

To become a New York pharmacist, an applicant must have a minimum of a five-year Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy, including courses in anatomy, biology, chemistry, physiology, and pharmacology. Applicants for the license must also complete an internship and pass written and practical licensing examinations.

To keep current in their profession, all practicing New York licensed pharmacists are required to take continuing education courses regularly.

Icon for the answer
  • The names of all prescription and nonprescription medicines you take, including the conditions for which you take them.
  • If you are allergic to any medications.
  • If you have any problems with any medicines.
  • If you are, or could be, pregnant.
  • If you are a smoker.
Icon for the answer

When your pharmacist counsels you about your prescription, the pharmacist may discuss the following information with you:

  • The medicine's name
  • What it is supposed to do
  • When the medicine should be taken and for how long
  • How the medicine should be taken
  • Common side effects
  • Foods, drinks, other medicines, or activities you should avoid while taking the medicine
  • What you should do if you miss a dose
  • How you should store the medicine
  • If there are any refills of the prescription
Icon for the answer

Yes, it is very important. Not taking your medications as prescribed can produce serious, disabling health complications.

If you have trouble remembering or understanding the directions for a medication's use, call your pharmacist for the information you need.

Icon for the answer

Yes, pharmacists may transfer refills from one pharmacy to another. This service will be provided only when a patient asks a pharmacist to send the prescription to another pharmacy.

Icon for the answer

Yes, if the prescriber and pharmacist have a secure (encrypted or encoded) system for electronic transmission from computer to computer, or by fax. Such systems help to ensure the accuracy of the prescription information while preventing an unauthorized person or firm from accessing confidential information. Whether you deliver your prescription personally or it is sent verbally or electronically, you have the right to choose your pharmacy. You also have the right to ask your prescriber for a written prescription.

Icon for the answer

Obtain all of your prescription medications at the same pharmacy, or keep careful records of the medications you are taking. Bring these records to the attention of health care providers and pharmacists who may not be familiar with your complete medical history.

Always let your health care provider or pharmacist know if you have an unexpected reaction to a medication.

Icon for the answer

No. Many "over the counter" medications were prescription drugs at one time, and many contain the same active ingredients as prescription drugs.

Before you take any medication, including "over the counter" drugs, seek the advice of your pharmacist or physician.

Icon for the answer

Ask such questions as whether the service location is physically accessible (curb cuts, ramps, restrooms, etc.) as well as whether there is a Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD) and parking for people with disabilities. You may also ask if a delivery service is available.

Icon for the answer

New York pharmacists must display a current New York registration certificate; this certificate lists the professional's name, address, and dates of the registration period. Pharmacists must reregister every three years to practice in New York. Some professionals also display their original New York license, diploma, licenses from other states, and membership certificates. You may verify an individual's license and registration on this site.