What type of prescription can only be prescribed by optometrists?

Optometrists have the authority to prescribe specific medications that relate directly to the treatment and management of ocular health. This includes diagnostic and therapeutic ocular agents which are specifically utilized for the eye and its associated structures. These agents cover a variety of uses such as eye exams, treatment of infections, and management of diseases that affect the eye.

In Illinois, the scope of practice for optometrists includes the ability to prescribe certain medications, but this is generally restricted to those that are pertinent to ocular health. Therefore, the focus on diagnostic and therapeutic ocular agents aligns with their training and the regulations governing their practice. These medications help address conditions such as conjunctivitis, glaucoma, and other eye-related health issues that fall under an optometrist’s professional expertise.

Other types of prescriptions, such as Schedule 2 medications or antibiotics, may not fall within the standard scope of practice for optometrists. Schedule 2 medications typically require a more stringent level of prescribing authority, often limited to specialists such as physicians. Non-restricted medications might include general prescriptions, but they are not specifically tied to the optometric practice like diagnostic and therapeutic ocular agents are.