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Emergency supply regulations — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardPharmacy LawEmergency supply regulationsGPhC CRA

A pharmacist is asked to provide an emergency supply of atorvastatin 40 mg at the request of a patient who has run out over a bank holiday weekend. The patient does not have a prescription. Under what condition can the pharmacist legally make an emergency supply at the request of the patient?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — An emergency supply at patient request can only be made for POMs that the patient has been prescribed before, the pharmacist is satisfied it is appropriate, and the maximum quantity is 30 days' supply (or smallest pack for CDs Schedule 4/5)

Under Regulation 249 of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, a pharmacist can make an emergency supply of a POM at the request of a patient provided several conditions are met: the pharmacist has conducted an interview and is satisfied there is an immediate need, the medicine has been previously prescribed for the patient, the appropriate dose is known, the quantity supplied does not exceed 30 days' treatment (except for certain CDs and insulin), and the supply is recorded. Schedule 1, 2, and 3 CDs are excluded from patient-requested emergency supplies.

Reference: HMR 2012 Reg 249; MEP; GPhC Guidance