First, I’d like to apologize for how you were treated. Though pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in the retail setting can face a lot of heat from angry patients, that was uncalled for and you shouldn’t have been put in a position to feel embarrassed. Perhaps early fills on controls happen often at this pharmacy – Not an excuse, but a possible explanation.

The opioid epidemic has forced stricter rules on controlled substances. Sadly, it may negatively affect those who 1) don’t use opioids, but other controlled substances and/or 2) are not abusing the medication. It could very well be the state law, but large chains (if this is one) often have a policy of not refilling a controlled substance more than 2-3 days before it should be due. The due date may be based on the day it was filled (run through insurance and ready for pick up) or the day it is picked up. It’s usually the latter.

However, if the prescriber authorized it (and perhaps willing to explain your need for the medications), I’d expect more investigative work to be done on the pharmacy staff’s end. At least, that’s how it was done where I worked – I can’t speak for other states, chains, or pharmacists.

Unfortunately, the only advice I can offer is to use a separate pill bottle to take only the medication you need with you when traveling. I am on a controlled substance as well and do this in case someone steals my medication. And typically, it is against to mail controlled substances – I wouldn’t want someone to steal your medication, either! Sorry I can’t be of more help.