Supplemental oxygen is a drug and requires a prescription for use.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Depends on jurisdiction
• D. Only with clinician approval

Answer: (B)

Oxygen is treated as a medication because it has pharmacologic effects and potential risks, so it is given and used under medical oversight. Requiring a prescription ensures that a clinician has determined the indication, the appropriate flow rate and delivery method, and the needed duration, while also arranging monitoring for effectiveness and safety. This oversight helps prevent issues such as oxygen toxicity from too high a concentration and CO2 retention in susceptible patients, and it ensures safe use in environments like home care or portable equipment. While some jurisdictions might manage devices differently, the standard practice in medical care is that supplemental oxygen for therapeutic use requires a clinician’s prescription and is dispensed accordingly.