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Chloramphenicol OTC age restriction — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePharmacy Law and EthicsChloramphenicol OTC age restrictionGPhC CRA

A father asks for chloramphenicol eye drops for his 18-month-old child with sticky red eyes. The child is well, has no pain and no visual change, but attends nursery. What is the legal classification/requirement?

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Correct answer: B — Chloramphenicol eye drops may be sold as a P medicine for children aged 2 years and over, so this child needs referral

OTC chloramphenicol eye drops have age restrictions and are not appropriate for an 18-month-old under the pharmacy medicine licence. The pharmacist should refer or signpost according to local pathways. The child’s mild symptoms do not override legal supply criteria. Nursery attendance is not an indication for unlawful sale.

Reference: BNF; Human Medicines Regulations 2012