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Emergency supply phenobarbital — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardPharmacy Law and EthicsEmergency supply phenobarbitalGPhC CRA

A 40-year-old man with epilepsy asks for an emergency supply of phenobarbital tablets after leaving home without them. The pharmacy has dispensed it before and the GP is closed. What is the legal classification/requirement?

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Correct answer: E — Emergency supply may be considered for phenobarbital used for epilepsy if legal conditions are met

Emergency supply of most Schedule 2 and 3 CDs at a patient's request is not permitted, but phenobarbital for epilepsy is a specific exception. The pharmacist must still satisfy the usual emergency supply conditions and make records. The quantity should be appropriate to the immediate need. This is a narrow legal exception, not a general controlled-drug rule.

Reference: Human Medicines Regulations 2012; Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001; MEP