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Pseudoephedrine sale restrictions — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePharmacy LawPseudoephedrine sale restrictionsGPhC CRA

A customer asks to buy pseudoephedrine tablets for nasal congestion. The pharmacist notices this is the third time in two weeks the customer has purchased pseudoephedrine from this pharmacy. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Refuse the sale and explain that frequent purchases of pseudoephedrine raise concerns about potential misuse, and recommend an alternative decongestant

Pseudoephedrine is a precursor chemical that can be used in the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine. While there is no specific legal limit on frequency of OTC purchase, the MEP and professional guidance recommend that pharmacists exercise professional judgement and refuse repeated sales. Frequent purchases should raise suspicion of potential misuse. The pharmacist should refuse the sale, explain why, and suggest an alternative nasal decongestant such as xylometazoline nasal spray.

Reference: MEP; GPhC Standards