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Parkinson's time-critical medicine — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCNS TherapeuticsParkinson's time-critical medicineGPhC CRA

A care home sends a same-day request because a resident with Parkinson's disease has run out of co-careldopa. He usually takes doses at 07:00, 11:00, 15:00 and 19:00 and becomes rigid if doses are late. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: E — Treat it as time-critical and arrange urgent supply through the safest lawful route

Levodopa preparations are time-critical medicines; missed or delayed doses can cause significant deterioration. The pharmacist should use appropriate legal and professional routes to avoid interruption, such as urgent prescriber contact or emergency supply if conditions are met. Dopamine antagonists such as haloperidol or prochlorperazine can worsen Parkinsonism. Routine delay would expose the resident to avoidable harm.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS