skip to main content

POM to P supply — GPhC CRA MCQ

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

ModeratePharmacy Law and EthicsPOM to P supplyGPhC CRA

A parent asks to buy pharmacy chloramphenicol eye drops for an 18-month-old with a sticky red eye. There are no emergency red flags. What should the pharmacist do?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: DDecline OTC chloramphenicol and refer the child for clinical assessment

Decline OTC chloramphenicol and refer the child for clinical assessment: The P-medicine indication for acute bacterial conjunctivitis applies from age 2 years, so this child falls outside licensed pharmacy supply. Supply chloramphenicol drops at half the dose stated on the product: Dose reduction does not extend the licensed age range or establish safety. Supply the standard drops under their general-sale medicine classification: Ophthalmic chloramphenicol for this indication is a pharmacy medicine, not GSL. Supply chloramphenicol ointment under a pharmacy licence from birth: Changing formulation does not create an OTC indication for this age without appropriate assessment. Supply the drops after obtaining written parental off-label consent: A consent form does not authorise an unprescribed off-label pharmacy sale.

Reference: BNF: chloramphenicol: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/chloramphenicol/; Human Medicines Regulations 2012: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/1916/contents