Arizona MPJE (Pharmacy Jurisprudence) Practice Exam

The defining characteristic of a pedigree document for prescription-only drugs is that it must record each wholesale distribution of the drug until it reaches the pharmacy. A pedigree serves as a comprehensive record of the distribution pathways that a drug has taken, ensuring traceability and security in the supply chain. This is crucial in preventing counterfeit medications from entering the market and protecting patient safety.

Including the drug's generic name, requiring a pharmacist's signature, or having an annual update may be relevant in certain contexts but do not constitute the fundamental requirement of what a pedigree document must achieve. The emphasis on documenting every wholesale distribution highlights the importance of tracking the drug's journey through various hands before it is dispensed to patients, thereby underscoring the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain.