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Opioid Prescribing Law UK — SCE Medical Oncology MCQ

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EasySupportive & Palliative OncologyOpioid Prescribing Law UKSCE Medical Oncology

A 58-year-old woman with cancer pain is being prescribed strong opioids for the first time. Her GP asks about the UK legal framework for opioid prescribing. What is the maximum quantity of schedule 2 controlled drugs (e.g. morphine) that can be prescribed on a single prescription?

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Correct answer: E — Schedule 2 CDs can be prescribed in any quantity per prescription in the UK (no legal maximum) — however, it is best practice to prescribe no more than 30 days' supply at a time; the prescription is valid for 28 days from the date signed

In the UK, there is no legal maximum quantity for schedule 2 CD prescriptions (unlike schedule 2 drugs in some other countries). However, Home Office guidance recommends limiting prescriptions to 30 days' supply. CD prescriptions must include: date, patient details, drug name/form/strength, dose, total quantity in words and figures, and prescriber signature. They are valid for 28 days. Any registered medical practitioner (GP or hospital doctor) can prescribe schedule 2 CDs. Electronic CD prescribing is now permitted.

Reference: BNF Controlled Drugs prescribing guidance; Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001; NICE CG140