Much of the confusion and debate comes from the use of words such as administer, prescribe and dispense. According to Kentucky law each has a distinct meaning and are not interchangeable.

218A.010 Definitions for chapter.

As used in this chapter:

• "Administer" means the direct application of a controlled substance, whether by injection, inhalation, ingestion, or any other means, to the body of a patient or research subject by:

1. A practitioner or by his or her authorized agent under his or her immediate supervision and pursuant to his or her order; or
2. The patient or research subject at the direction and in the presence of the practitioner;

• "Dispense" means to deliver a controlled substance to an ultimate user or research subject by or pursuant to the lawful order of a practitioner, including the packaging, labeling, or compounding necessary to prepare the substance for that delivery;
• "Prescription" means a written, electronic, or oral order for a drug or medicine, or combination or mixture of drugs or medicines, or proprietary preparation, signed or given or authorized by a medical, dental, chiropody, veterinarian, optometric practitioner, or advanced practice registered nurse, and intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevent disease in man or other animals;