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POM legal classification — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardPharmacy Law and EthicsPOM legal classificationGPhC CRA

An adult asks to buy amoxicillin for a new dental swelling. They used it last year, have no prescription, and the pharmacy has no applicable PGD or commissioned clinical pathway. Which action is most appropriate?

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Correct answer: E — Do not sell; assess red flags and direct the patient to urgent dental care or another lawful prescriber route

Amoxicillin is POM. Previous use last year does not by itself make this request a lawful or clinically appropriate emergency supply. Regulation 225 would require the pharmacist to be satisfied about immediate need, previous prescribing of amoxicillin and an appropriate dose, alongside every other condition; the facts given do not establish those requirements or a safe diagnosis for a new dental episode. The patient therefore needs red-flag assessment, urgent dental care and a lawful prescriber or other authorised route.

Reference: Human Medicines Regulations 2012: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/1916/pdfs/uksi_20121916_en.pdf; Amoxicillin capsules Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/13501/pil