What should be done if a pharmacy technician notices a patient is allergic to a prescribed medication?

If a pharmacy technician notices that a patient is allergic to a prescribed medication, the most appropriate action to take is to inform the pharmacist immediately and refrain from filling the prescription. This is crucial because pharmacists have the expertise to assess potential drug interactions and allergies comprehensively.

The pharmacist can then take the necessary steps to address the patient's allergy, which may include contacting the prescriber to discuss an alternative medication that would be safe for the patient. This action protects the patient's health and safety by preventing the dispensing of a medication that could cause an allergic reaction.

In contrast, filling the prescription and later informing the physician fails to provide immediate protection for the patient and could result in adverse effects. Contacting the patient's insurance does not address the immediate concern of the allergy, and replacing the medication with an alternative should only be done after consulting with a healthcare professional, as it may not be suitable without proper evaluation.