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Salbutamol classification — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePharmacy Law and EthicsSalbutamol classificationGPhC CRA

A runner with no asthma diagnosis asks to buy two salbutamol inhalers for recurrent exercise-related wheeze. They are comfortable at rest and have no red flags. What should the pharmacist do?

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Correct answer: B — Decline sale and arrange clinical assessment of recurrent exercise-related wheeze

Decline sale and arrange clinical assessment of recurrent exercise-related wheeze: Salbutamol inhalers are prescription-only, and recurrent exertional symptoms need diagnostic assessment rather than unmonitored reliever use. Sell one inhaler under a pharmacy exemption for exercise-induced symptoms: There is no general OTC exemption for undiagnosed exercise symptoms. Sell two inhalers after documenting a satisfactory demonstration of technique: Good technique does not create legal supply authority or replace diagnostic assessment. Make an emergency supply because symptoms may recur during later exercise: A planned future activity without prior prescribed therapy is not an emergency supply at patient request. Recommend using another runner’s inhaler before the next training session: Sharing prescription medicines is unsafe and unlawful.

Reference: Human Medicines Regulations 2012: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/1916/contents; BNF: salbutamol: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/salbutamol/; NICE NG245: asthma diagnosis, monitoring and chronic management: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245/chapter/Recommendations