Free ExCPT Exam Flashcards
Memorize 50 essential terms and definitions for the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). See the term, recall the definition, then flip to check yourself.
DEA Schedule II
Controlled substances with high abuse potential but accepted medical use. Includes oxycodone, morphine, fentanyl, methylphenidate, and amphetamines. No refills allowed; new prescription required each time. Must be stored in a locked cabinet.
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About These ExCPT Flashcards
These 50 flashcards are designed to help you memorize key terms and definitions for the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). Each card shows a term on the front and its definition on the back—the classic flashcard format for vocabulary memorization. Use these alongside our practice questions to build both recall and comprehension.
Topics Covered
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ExCPT exam pass rate?
The ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians) has approximately a 74% first-attempt pass rate according to NHA data. This is slightly higher than the PTCE's ~70% pass rate. Candidates who complete NHA-approved training programs pass at higher rates (80%+). The exam uses a scaled score from 300-800, with 390 required to pass. Most failures occur in pharmacy calculations and controlled substance regulations.
What is the difference between ExCPT and PTCE?
ExCPT (administered by NHA) and PTCE (administered by PTCB) are both nationally recognized pharmacy technician certifications. Key differences: 1) Cost - ExCPT is $117 vs. PTCE's $129; 2) Questions - ExCPT has 120 questions (100 scored) vs. PTCE's 90 (80 scored); 3) Time - both allow 2 hours; 4) Acceptance - while both are accepted nationwide, PTCE is more widely recognized by employers and required in some states. Check your state board requirements before choosing.
How do I prepare for the ExCPT exam?
To prepare for the ExCPT: 1) Complete an NHA-approved pharmacy technician program (optional but recommended); 2) Study the top 200 drugs - generic/brand names and classifications are heavily tested; 3) Master pharmacy calculations - dosage conversions, dilutions, IV flow rates; 4) Review pharmacy law - DEA schedules, HIPAA, storage requirements; 5) Take NHA's official practice tests ($32-75); 6) Use flashcards daily for drug memorization. Most successful candidates spend 60-100 hours over 4-8 weeks.
What topics are on the ExCPT exam?
The ExCPT covers three main domains: 1) Pharmacy Operations (60%) - including medication dispensing, customer service, inventory management, insurance processing, and sterile/non-sterile compounding; 2) Pharmacology (25%) - drug classifications, mechanisms, side effects, drug interactions, and top 200 medications; 3) Pharmacy Law & Regulations (15%) - controlled substances, DEA regulations, HIPAA, and state-specific requirements. NHA provides a detailed study guide outlining all testable content.
Do I need pharmacy experience to take the ExCPT?
No direct pharmacy experience is required to take the ExCPT - you only need a high school diploma or GED. However, candidates with pharmacy experience or who completed a training program pass at significantly higher rates. NHA recommends either: 1) Completing an NHA-approved training program; OR 2) Having 1+ years of pharmacy technician experience. Many states require both certification AND completion of an accredited program for licensure, so check state requirements.
How long is ExCPT certification valid?
ExCPT certification (CPhT-Adv) is valid for 2 years. To renew, you must complete 20 continuing education (CE) hours, including at least 1 hour of pharmacy law and 1 hour of patient safety. Renewal fee is $49. If you let certification lapse, you'll need to retake the exam. Many employers and states require maintaining current certification for employment. NHA partners with CE providers offering free and low-cost options.