skip to main content

Emergency supply insulin — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModeratePharmacy Law and EthicsEmergency supply insulinGPhC CRA

A patient with type 1 diabetes is away from home and has broken their last insulin glargine pen. The pharmacy can verify previous regular supply from the PMR and the patient cannot contact the GP today. What is the legal classification/requirement?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — A pharmacist may make an emergency supply if legal conditions and clinical judgement are satisfied

Insulin is a prescription-only medicine and may be supplied at a patient’s request in an emergency if statutory conditions are met and the pharmacist judges it appropriate. The quantity should be appropriate to the emergency and record-keeping requirements apply. The pharmacist should also advise follow-up with the usual prescriber. This is a legal and clinical judgement, not an automatic entitlement.

Reference: Human Medicines Regulations 2012; BNF